An In-Depth Guide to Ambulance Stretcher Locking Mechanism: Standards, Grades, and Performance

Types of Ambulance Stretcher Locking Mechanisms

A stretcher locking mechanism is a critical safety component in emergency medical services (EMS), ensuring that the patient cot remains securely fastened inside the ambulance during transport. The right locking system enhances patient safety, improves response efficiency, and reduces the risk of injury to both patients and medical personnel. There are three primary types of locking mechanisms used in modern ambulance stretchers: manual, hydraulic, and autolock. Each offers distinct advantages depending on operational needs, vehicle configuration, and service protocols.

Manual Locking Mechanisms

Relies on physical engagement by EMS personnel using levers, clamps, or handles to secure the stretcher in place.

Advantages

• High durability and mechanical reliability
• Resistant to wear in high-stress environments
• Low maintenance and long service life
• Cost-effective for budget-conscious operations
• No reliance on hydraulic fluid or electronics

Limitations

• Requires physical effort to engage/disengage
• Higher risk of human error (e.g., improper locking)
• Slower deployment and retrieval compared to automated systems
• Increased strain on EMS staff during repeated use

Best for: Basic mechanical stretchers, rural EMS units, facilities with limited budgets

Hydraulic Locking Mechanisms

Uses fluid-based pressure systems to control and lock the height and position of the stretcher with minimal effort.

Advantages

• Smooth, controlled height adjustment
• Reduces physical strain on paramedics
• Dampens vibrations and shocks during transit
• Enhanced patient comfort and safety
• Quick operation via pedal or lever activation

Limitations

• More complex maintenance requirements
• Potential for fluid leaks or system failure
• Higher initial and repair costs
• Requires periodic servicing to ensure reliability

Best for: Adjustable stretchers, urban EMS, hospitals with frequent patient transfers

Autolock (Auto-Latching) Mechanisms

Automatically engages when the stretcher is slid into the ambulance, requiring no manual input beyond proper alignment.

Advantages

• Instant, automatic locking upon insertion
• Minimizes human error and ensures consistent safety
• Maximizes efficiency during emergency responses
• Enables faster turnaround times at scenes
• Promotes standardization across ambulance fleets

Limitations

• Higher upfront cost and specialized equipment needs
• Requires precise stretcher and vehicle compatibility
• Potential for mechanical or sensor malfunctions
• Limited flexibility with non-standard stretchers

Best for: Modern EMS fleets, rapid-response units, standardized ambulance systems

Mechanism Type	Durability	User Effort	Speed & Efficiency	Safety & Reliability	Ideal Use Case
Manual	Excellent	High	Medium	High (if properly engaged)	Budget operations, basic transport needs
Hydraulic	Good	Low	High	Very High	Hospitals, urban EMS, frequent use
Autolock	Very Good	Very Low	Excellent	Excellent (with proper maintenance)	Fleet standardization, rapid deployment

Expert Tip: When selecting a stretcher locking system, consider not only the mechanism type but also interoperability with your ambulance fleet. Autolock systems offer the highest efficiency but require full standardization. For mixed fleets, hybrid systems or hydraulic/manual backups are recommended to ensure seamless operations across vehicles.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Locking Mechanism

• Safety Compliance: Ensure the locking mechanism meets NFPA 1917 and KKK-A-1822 standards for ambulance safety.
• Training Requirements: Autolock and hydraulic systems may require specific training to use and maintain effectively.
• Maintenance Access: Hydraulic and autolock systems benefit from regular inspections to prevent fluid leaks or sensor failures.
• Operational Workflow: High-volume EMS agencies gain the most from autolock systems due to faster turnaround times.
• Budget Planning: While manual systems are cheaper upfront, long-term savings from reduced staff injury and downtime may justify investment in hydraulic or autolock options.

Durability and Material: Engineering Resilience in Ambulance Stretchers

Ambulance stretchers are engineered to perform under extreme conditions—transporting patients through emergency rooms, accident sites, natural disasters, and all types of weather. Their reliability hinges on the quality of materials used in construction. These materials must deliver exceptional durability, structural strength, high weight capacity, and resistance to wear and environmental stress. This comprehensive guide explores the critical materials and design features that ensure ambulance stretchers remain functional, safe, and hygienic across thousands of uses.

Frame Materials: The Backbone of Structural Integrity

The frame is the core structural component of any stretcher, responsible for supporting the patient’s weight, withstanding mechanical stress during movement, and maintaining stability on uneven terrain. Despite being foldable or collapsible for portability, modern stretcher frames are built from high-performance metals known for their strength-to-weight ratio and resilience. The most commonly used materials include:

Aluminum

Aluminum is a top choice for ambulance stretchers due to its lightweight nature and excellent strength. It reduces the overall weight of the stretcher, making it easier for EMS personnel to lift and maneuver—especially critical during stair carries or prolonged extrications. Despite being light, aircraft-grade aluminum alloys offer impressive durability and fatigue resistance, capable of supporting patients up to 400 lbs or more. Its natural oxide layer also provides inherent corrosion resistance, enhancing longevity.

Steel

Steel, particularly high-tensile or carbon steel, is used in heavy-duty stretchers where maximum strength and rigidity are required. While heavier than aluminum, steel frames provide unmatched durability and load-bearing capacity—ideal for bariatric stretchers or military/emergency response units operating in rugged environments. Many steel frames are powder-coated or treated to improve corrosion resistance and reduce maintenance needs.

Titanium

Titanium represents the premium tier in stretcher frame materials. Though less common due to cost, it offers the best strength-to-density ratio of all metals, along with exceptional resistance to corrosion and fatigue. Titanium frames are typically found in specialized or military-grade stretchers where weight savings, extreme durability, and long-term reliability are non-negotiable. Its biocompatibility and resistance to saltwater make it ideal for maritime rescue operations.

Corrosion Resistance: Safeguarding Performance in Harsh Environments

Emergency medical equipment is constantly exposed to moisture, bodily fluids, cleaning agents, and outdoor elements—all of which can accelerate metal degradation. Corrosion not only compromises aesthetics but can weaken structural joints, impair mechanical functions (like height adjustment or wheel locking), and create hygiene risks. To combat this, stretcher manufacturers prioritize corrosion-resistant materials and finishes:

In Hospital Settings

Hospitals require rigorous infection control, meaning stretchers are frequently cleaned with potent disinfectants such as bleach, quaternary ammonium compounds, and hydrogen peroxide solutions. These chemicals can degrade standard metals over time. Stainless steel (particularly grades 304 and 316), titanium alloys, and anodized aluminum resist chemical breakdown, ensuring that frames maintain integrity even after repeated sterilization cycles. This extends service life and reduces the risk of particulate shedding or surface pitting that could harbor pathogens.

In Field and Outdoor Use

EMS teams operate in rain, snow, mud, and coastal environments where saltwater exposure increases corrosion risks. Aluminum and stainless steel are naturally resistant to rust and oxidation, preserving the stretcher’s mechanical performance in wet or humid conditions. Many manufacturers enhance protection with powder coatings, sealed bearings, and waterproof electronics housings. This ensures reliable operation whether responding to a highway crash in a downpour or evacuating patients during a flood.

Upholstery Materials: Comfort Meets Clinical Durability

Beyond the frame, the upholstery plays a vital role in patient comfort, hygiene, and ease of maintenance. It must endure constant use, frequent cleaning, and exposure to fluids without tearing, degrading, or harboring bacteria. Modern stretchers use advanced textile and foam technologies designed for clinical resilience:

Vinyl Upholstery: Vinyl is the most widely used material for stretcher surfaces due to its impermeability, ease of disinfection, and resistance to punctures and abrasions. Medical-grade vinyl is formulated to withstand repeated wiping with hospital-grade cleaners and remains flexible in cold environments. It’s especially valuable in trauma and emergency settings where rapid decontamination is essential.

Mesh Fabrics: Ventilated stretchers often feature breathable mesh panels in the backrest or seat area. These fabrics provide airflow to prevent overheating and reduce pressure sores during extended transports. High-tensile mesh is engineered to resist stretching, tearing, and microbial growth, while remaining compatible with standard detergents and disinfectants. Ideal for long-distance ambulance transfers or patient stabilization units.

Foam Padding: High-density, closed-cell foam is used beneath the upholstery to provide cushioning without compromising durability. Unlike standard foams that degrade under compression, medical-grade foams retain their shape and support after years of use. They are also resistant to fluid absorption, preventing mold or bacterial growth inside the padding. Some models use layered foam systems for enhanced pressure distribution and comfort.

Material	Key Benefits	Common Applications
Aluminum	Lightweight, strong, corrosion-resistant, easy to handle	Standard EMS stretchers, stair chairs, air medical units
Stainless Steel	High strength, excellent corrosion and chemical resistance	Hospital ER stretchers, bariatric units, decontamination zones
Titanium Alloys	Ultra-strong, lightweight, extreme durability, saltwater resistant	Military, maritime rescue, specialty response teams
Medical-Grade Vinyl	Fluid-resistant, easy to clean, durable surface	All ambulance stretchers, ICU cots, trauma beds
Breathable Mesh	Enhanced airflow, comfort during long transports	Ventilated stretchers, rehabilitation units, long-haul ambulances

Important: Regular inspection and proper cleaning are essential to maintain material integrity. Always follow manufacturer guidelines for disinfection to avoid damaging upholstery or coatings. Using incompatible cleaners can degrade vinyl, delaminate foam, or compromise protective finishes on metal frames. Investing in high-quality materials pays off in reduced downtime, lower replacement costs, and improved patient and provider safety.

Scenarios of Ambulance Stretcher Locking Mechanisms

Selecting the right locking mechanism for ambulance stretchers is crucial for ensuring patient safety, operational efficiency, and durability across diverse medical and environmental conditions. Different healthcare environments demand specific features in stretcher design—especially in how the locking systems perform under pressure, frequency of use, and accessibility. This guide explores the most common stretcher locking mechanisms and their ideal applications in emergency medical services, hospital transport, and field operations.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS)

In fast-paced emergency response environments, speed, reliability, and safety are paramount. Paramedics require stretchers that can be secured quickly during transport to minimize delays and ensure patient stability on the move. Auto-lock and hydraulic systems dominate this space due to their rapid deployment and ease of use.

• Auto-Lock Stretchers

  Widely used by urban EMS teams and first responders, auto-lock stretchers feature spring-loaded or sensor-activated mechanisms that engage automatically when the stretcher is loaded into the ambulance. This eliminates manual steps, reduces human error, and enhances crew safety during high-speed transport.

  Key Benefits: One-touch operation, vibration-resistant locks, compatibility with quick-loading systems, and reduced physical strain on EMTs.

• Hydraulic Stretchers

  These stretchers utilize hydraulic cylinders controlled via foot pedals or levers to adjust height and lock position. Ideal for crews managing frequent patient transfers, they allow smooth elevation changes and secure locking at optimal working heights.

  Operational Advantage: Enables ergonomic patient handling, minimizes back injuries among responders, and supports rapid repositioning during extrication or loading.

Best For: High-volume urban EMS, rapid-response units, and services prioritizing crew efficiency and patient safety during dynamic transport.

Transport Within Healthcare Facilities

Hospitals and clinics require stretchers that are reliable, cost-effective, and maneuverable in confined spaces such as elevators, narrow hallways, and operating rooms. Manual and hydraulic locking systems are most commonly used due to their simplicity, durability, and compatibility with indoor logistics.

• Manual Lock Stretchers

  Equipped with lever-based or pin-style locking mechanisms, these stretchers offer dependable performance with minimal maintenance. Hospital staff can easily secure the stretcher bed during movement between departments like the ER, ICU, radiology, or surgery.

  Key Advantages: Lower acquisition cost, no reliance on power or hydraulics, and excellent durability in controlled indoor environments.

• Hydraulic Stretchers (Hospital Grade)

  Similar to EMS models but often designed for lighter, more frequent use, hospital hydraulic stretchers allow staff to adjust bed height with a pedal or hand pump. The locking mechanism ensures stability once positioned, reducing fall risks during transfers.

  Ideal Use Case: Moving patients from imaging suites to recovery rooms where precise height alignment with equipment is essential.

Best For: Intra-hospital logistics, multi-floor transfers, and facilities seeking a balance between functionality and budget efficiency.

Field Operations and Military

In remote, rugged, or combat environments, reliability under extreme conditions is non-negotiable. Stretchers must function without power sources, resist environmental damage, and withstand prolonged use. Manual locking mechanisms are the standard due to their robustness and simplicity.

• Manual Lock Stretchers (Tactical/Field Models)

  Designed for military medics, disaster relief teams, and search-and-rescue units, these stretchers use mechanical pins, cam locks, or twist rods to secure the frame and bed position. They are built from corrosion-resistant materials like aluminum or reinforced polymers.

  Durability Features: Waterproof components, sand/dirt-resistant joints, and fail-safe locking even after impact or rough terrain exposure.

These stretchers are routinely deployed in multi-day missions, natural disasters, peacekeeping operations, and austere medical settings where equipment failure is not an option. Their design prioritizes function over automation, ensuring that life-saving transport continues regardless of external conditions.

Best For: Military field medics, disaster response teams, wilderness rescue, and humanitarian missions in underdeveloped or conflict zones.

Comparison of Locking Mechanism Types

Mechanism Type	Primary Use Case	Speed of Operation	Durability	Maintenance Needs
Auto-Lock	Urban EMS, Rapid Response	Very Fast (automatic engagement)	High (with regular servicing)	Moderate (sensors, moving parts)
Hydraulic Lock	Hospital Transport, EMS Fleets	Fast (pedal-actuated)	High (seals may degrade over time)	Moderate to High (fluid checks, seal replacement)
Manual Lock	Hospital, Field, Military	Moderate (requires user action)	Very High (fewer moving parts)	Low (lubrication, visual inspection)

Professional Recommendation: When selecting a stretcher locking system, consider the operational environment first. For urban EMS, prioritize speed and automation with auto-lock systems. In hospitals, balance cost and usability with manual or hydraulic options. For field and military use, choose rugged manual lock stretchers designed for extreme durability. Always verify compliance with safety standards such as ISO 10535 (wheelchair and stretcher safety) and EN 1865 (ambulance stretchers).

Additional Considerations

• Patient Safety: Ensure locking mechanisms include audible or visual indicators (e.g., click sounds, colored flags) to confirm secure engagement.
• Ergonomics: Hydraulic and auto-lock systems reduce physical strain on medical personnel, lowering the risk of work-related injuries.
• Training Requirements: Automated systems may require initial training, while manual locks are intuitive and require minimal instruction.
• Environmental Resistance: In outdoor or coastal regions, opt for locking components with anti-corrosion coatings or stainless steel construction.
• Interoperability: Choose stretchers compatible with common ambulance mounting systems (e.g., Stryker Power-LOAD, Ferno Q-LOK) to ensure seamless integration.

How To Choose the Ambulance Stretcher Locking Mechanism

Selecting the right locking mechanism for an ambulance stretcher is a critical decision that directly impacts patient safety, responder efficiency, and equipment longevity. A reliable locking system ensures secure patient transport across diverse environments—from rugged field conditions to hospital corridors. With various mechanisms available, including manual, hydraulic, and automatic systems, choosing the optimal solution requires careful evaluation of operational needs, user experience, maintenance demands, and budget constraints.

Safety Note: The locking mechanism is a vital component of patient immobilization and transport safety. Always ensure compatibility with your ambulance’s loading system and verify compliance with relevant medical device standards such as ISO 10535 or EN 1865.

1. Operational Environment

The environment in which the stretcher will be deployed plays a decisive role in selecting the appropriate locking mechanism. In high-stress, unpredictable scenarios—such as battlefield evacuations, disaster zones, or remote rural rescues—manual locking systems are often preferred due to their simplicity, reliability, and resistance to environmental factors like dirt, moisture, and extreme temperatures.

In contrast, urban emergency medical services (EMS) operating in controlled environments with frequent patient transfers benefit from automated or hydraulic locking systems. These systems integrate seamlessly with powered ambulance loading systems, reducing physical strain on responders and minimizing deployment time during time-sensitive emergencies.

• Field/Military Use: Manual locks offer rugged dependability with minimal failure points.
• Urban EMS: Auto-lock or hydraulic systems enhance speed and reduce responder fatigue.
• Hospital Transfers: Semi-automatic mechanisms provide smooth transitions between departments.

2. Ease of Use and Operational Efficiency

The ease with which a locking mechanism can be engaged or disengaged significantly affects both patient care and response times. In emergency situations, every second counts—delayed or complex locking procedures can compromise patient outcomes.

Modern automatic locking systems feature intuitive controls, often integrated into the stretcher handle, allowing one-handed operation. These systems typically use sensors or mechanical triggers to confirm secure engagement, providing audible or tactile feedback to the operator.

Hydraulic systems offer smooth, controlled locking with reduced physical effort, while manual systems require deliberate user action but are less prone to electronic or software malfunctions.

Pro Tip: Look for locking mechanisms with visual or audible indicators (e.g., green light or click sound) to confirm secure engagement—this reduces human error during high-pressure situations.

3. Durability and Maintenance Requirements

Durability is a top priority for ambulance stretchers, which endure frequent use, heavy loads, and exposure to harsh conditions. Simpler mechanisms—such as manual locks or basic hydraulic systems—typically have fewer moving parts, which translates to higher reliability and lower maintenance needs.

Automatic locking systems, while convenient, may require more frequent servicing due to electronic components, sensors, or motorized actuators. Regular calibration and battery checks are essential to prevent in-field failures.

When evaluating durability, consider:

• Corrosion-resistant materials (e.g., stainless steel, anodized aluminum)
• Sealed components to prevent ingress of water, dust, or debris
• Mean time between failures (MTBF) data from manufacturers
• Availability of replacement parts and service support

4. Training and Standardization Across Fleets

Standardizing locking mechanisms across an EMS fleet enhances operational consistency and simplifies training. When all ambulances use the same type of stretcher lock, responders can transition between vehicles without relearning procedures—critical during mutual aid operations or shift changes.

Automatic locking systems are particularly advantageous for large organizations due to their uniform operation and integration with electronic monitoring systems. They reduce variability in usage and minimize the risk of improper locking caused by user error.

Key benefits of standardization include:

• Faster onboarding and reduced training costs
• Improved compliance with safety protocols
• Easier troubleshooting and maintenance
• Consistent performance across all units

5. Cost Considerations and Total Ownership

While initial purchase price is an important factor, the total cost of ownership (TCO) should guide decision-making. Manual locking systems generally have the lowest upfront cost and minimal repair expenses, making them ideal for budget-constrained services.

Automatic and hydraulic systems come with higher initial investment but may offer long-term savings through reduced worker injuries, faster response times, and extended equipment life. Consider the following when evaluating cost:

Locking Type	Initial Cost	Maintenance Needs	Best Use Case	Lifespan Estimate
Manual Lock	Low	Minimal (lubrication, visual inspection)	Rural, military, or backup units	10+ years
Hydraulic Lock	Moderate	Moderate (seal checks, fluid levels)	Urban EMS with frequent use	7–10 years
Automatic (Electronic) Lock	High	Regular (battery, sensor calibration)	Large fleets, hospital-based services	5–8 years

Additional Selection Tips

• Interoperability: Ensure the locking mechanism is compatible with your ambulance’s cot retention system (e.g., Stryker PROPEL, Ferno iBOT).
• Weight Capacity: Verify the lock can support the maximum patient weight, including equipment and blankets.
• Redundancy: Some advanced stretchers feature dual-locking systems (primary and secondary) for added safety.
• User Feedback: Involve frontline EMTs and paramedics in the selection process—practical experience is invaluable.
• Warranty & Support: Choose manufacturers offering comprehensive warranties and responsive technical support.

Expert Insight: Conduct a pilot program with 1–2 units before full fleet rollout. Test performance across different scenarios—narrow hallways, stairwells, rough terrain—to evaluate real-world usability and reliability.

In summary, selecting the right ambulance stretcher locking mechanism involves balancing safety, efficiency, durability, and cost. While automatic systems offer convenience and speed, manual locks remain a trusted choice for rugged reliability. By aligning your choice with your operational profile, training capabilities, and budget, you can ensure safe, efficient patient transport and support the well-being of both patients and emergency responders.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ambulance Stretcher Locking Mechanisms and Materials

Q1: What locking mechanism should hospitals use for ambulatory stretchers?

Hospitals typically choose between manual and hydraulic locking mechanisms for ambulatory stretchers, depending on their operational needs. Manual locking systems are simple, reliable, and require minimal maintenance—ideal for routine patient transfers in general wards or outpatient departments. These systems use levers or pins that staff can engage or disengage with ease.

On the other hand, hydraulic locking mechanisms offer smoother, more precise height and position adjustments, making them particularly suitable for high-acuity areas such as operating rooms (ORs), intensive care units (ICUs), and emergency departments. These systems allow caregivers to fine-tune the stretcher’s position with minimal effort, improving ergonomics and reducing strain during critical procedures or patient handling.

Ultimately, the decision depends on workflow demands, patient acuity levels, and staff training—hydraulic systems offer advanced functionality but may come with higher costs and maintenance requirements.

Q2: What factors influence the selection of an ambulance stretcher locking mechanism?

Selecting the right locking mechanism for an ambulance stretcher involves evaluating several key factors to ensure safety, efficiency, and long-term reliability:

• Operational Environment: Urban EMS units dealing with rapid response times may prioritize speed and automation, while rural or military teams might value ruggedness and mechanical simplicity.
• Usability Under Stress: In emergency situations, intuitive and quick-to-engage mechanisms reduce cognitive load and response time. Automatic or semi-automatic systems excel here.
• Durability and Maintenance: Mechanisms must withstand frequent use, exposure to weather, and rough handling. Hydraulic and automatic systems, while efficient, may require more specialized servicing than robust manual locks.
• Budget Constraints: Manual systems are generally more affordable upfront and over time, whereas hydraulic and automatic options involve higher initial investment and potential repair costs.
• Staff Training and Familiarity: Complex systems require proper training to avoid misuse. Organizations with high staff turnover may benefit from simpler, more intuitive designs.

A comprehensive evaluation of these factors ensures that the chosen locking system aligns with both clinical needs and logistical realities.

Q3: Which locking mechanisms are best suited for emergency medical services (EMS)?

For Emergency Medical Services (EMS), where speed, safety, and efficiency are paramount, automatic locking mechanisms are widely considered the optimal choice. These systems automatically secure the stretcher into place when loaded into the ambulance, eliminating the need for manual intervention.

Key advantages include:

• Time Savings: Reduces loading/unloading time during emergencies, allowing crews to focus on patient care.
• Enhanced Safety: Minimizes human error—such as forgetting to engage a manual lock—which could lead to dangerous movement during transit.
• One-Person Operation: Enables a single responder to safely secure the stretcher, crucial in understaffed or high-pressure scenarios.
• Integration with Vehicle Systems: Many automatic locks sync with the ambulance’s power system and include visual/audible confirmation (e.g., LED indicators) to verify secure attachment.

Leading EMS providers increasingly adopt automatic locking systems as part of modernized ambulance fleets to improve response efficiency and patient transport safety.

Q4: Are manual locks suitable for any setting?

Yes, manual locking mechanisms remain highly suitable—and even preferred—in several critical settings due to their reliability, durability, and independence from electrical or hydraulic systems.

Common applications include:

• Field and Tactical Medicine: Military, disaster response, and wilderness EMS teams often operate in remote areas with limited access to maintenance or power sources. Manual locks function reliably in extreme conditions without risk of electronic failure.
• Backup Systems: Even in ambulances with automatic locks, manual backups are often included for redundancy in case of system failure.
• Budget-Conscious Facilities: Smaller clinics or developing-region hospitals may opt for manual systems due to lower acquisition and maintenance costs.
• Hospital Transport Units: In non-emergency intra-facility transfers, manual stretchers provide dependable performance with minimal training required.

Their mechanical simplicity makes manual locks a trusted solution where robustness and fail-safe operation are essential.

Q5: Which materials are used in ambulance stretchers for high hygiene and easy maintenance?

Ambulance stretchers are constructed from advanced materials engineered for durability, infection control, and ease of cleaning—critical in healthcare environments where cross-contamination must be minimized.

The most commonly used materials include:

• Stainless Steel: Widely used for frames and structural components due to its resistance to corrosion, chemicals, and repeated disinfection. It is also non-porous, preventing microbial buildup.
• Titanium Alloys: Found in high-end or lightweight stretchers, offering exceptional strength-to-weight ratios and excellent resistance to rust and sterilization agents. Ideal for air medical transport and tactical units.
• Medical-Grade Vinyl: Used for mattress covers and padding surfaces, this material is fluid-resistant, tear-resistant, and easily wiped down with hospital-grade disinfectants. It also prevents absorption of blood, bodily fluids, or cleaning agents.
• Aluminum Alloys: Often used in combination with other materials to reduce overall weight while maintaining structural integrity, especially in portable or folding stretchers.

These materials not only support rigorous hygiene protocols but also contribute to the longevity and performance of the equipment under demanding daily use.