Maintenance Protocols: When Should Product Teams Check the Brake Cables and Wheel Functionality?
Product managers and maintenance planners in healthcare mobility need strategic clarity on maintenance routines. A key component of reliability is knowing when to check the brake cables and wheel functionality. Without proper scheduling, brake systems may deteriorate unnoticed, and wheels may become unstable, risking patient safety and eroding brand trust. This article outlines structured protocols, from routine intervals to reactive maintenance triggers.
Scheduled Checks: Establishing Routine Maintenance Cycles
Rollators deployed in care facilities, hospitals, or home use require defined inspection intervals. Teams should check the brake cables and wheel functionality:
Every 3 months for general usage
Monthly in high-frequency use environments (e.g., hospitals)
Prior to and after loan or rental periods
Set automated reminders in asset management systems to log each completed inspection.
Inspection Checklist for Brake Cables and Wheels
Brake cable tension: Does the brake engage with minimal effort?
Brake pads: Worn or detached?
Wheel alignment: Are both wheels tracking evenly?
Wheel bearings: Any grinding or resistance during motion?
Tire surface: Excessive wear or flat spots?
Reactive Maintenance Triggers
Beyond scheduled checks, your teams should check the brake cables and wheel functionality immediately after:
Any report of abnormal braking or wheel drag
Falls or near-fall incidents involving the device
Storage in extreme temperature or humidity
Signs of corrosion, rust, or mold
Digital Logging and Compliance Reporting
Procurement and product compliance teams can benefit from digital maintenance logs. Use barcode scanning and timestamped entries to capture when each rollator was last maintained. Regular audits strengthen accountability and compliance under ISO 13485 or similar medical device standards.
Conclusion
Proactively setting up inspection schedules for brake cables and wheel systems is critical for both user safety and brand assurance. Product teams that consistently check the brake cables and wheel functionality ensure their rollators meet professional reliability standards.
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