FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Q’Straint and Sure-Lok have launched a new anchorage line that provides the flexibility to use securements from either brand.

By using OMNI Floor Anchor Systems, operators can mix and match retractors and manual belts from both Q’Straint and Sure-Lok.

Company officials said that the OMNI line, designed for operations that require flexibility in a mixed-brand environment, takes the guesswork out of securing passengers in school buses, paratransit vehicles, wheelchair-accessible vehicles, community transport, ambulances or non-emergency transportation vehicles.

It has been recommended that tie-downs match the brand of their floor anchorages. Company officials said that with the OMNI series, operators can reduce their liability and know that the new line of products has been tested and certified for both Q’Straint and Sure-Lok systems.

“Operators can now feel at ease whenever there is a chance that retractors and belts from both Sure-Lok and Q’Straint are at a property, plus it gives them the flexibility to source from both manufacturers,” said Bob Joseph, Q’Straint's vice president of business development. “There are thousands of properties that have retractors and manual belts from both Q’Straint and Sure-Lok, and by using OMNI anchorages, operators no longer have to brand-match the track and pockets.”

All OMNI Floor Anchor Systems feature stainless steel or aluminum materials designed for demanding transportation environments. Company officials said that aluminum L-Track offers superior strength and corrosion resistance, and it provides maximum flexibility to accommodate many different wheelchair positions. OMNI L-Track is an aluminum alloy (6061-T6) and can be configured in custom lengths and drill patterns.

The OMNI line includes three different profiles of L-Track (regular, flanged and angled) and is offered in standard lengths of 100 inches. The L-Track pockets that are available include a recessed version with a hinged cover, a flush model that is designed to be recessed in the floor and an oval pocket with a sleek design to minimize tripping and interference with wheelchair casters.

The Slide ‘N Click anchorage is now an OMNI compatible product.

“It is all about compatibility and liability," said Tony Matijevich, president of Creative Bus Sales. "By installing OMNI track, we know that the buses we are providing to our customers can use both Q’Straint and Sure-Lok retractors without worry about safety and potential legal exposure. This is the universal solution we have been looking for."

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