The right moving and handling equipment can make a significant difference to both the person receiving care and the staff supporting them.

Equipment can help reduce physical strain, enable safer movement and support an individual’s comfort and dignity. However, simply having equipment available isn’t enough: it needs to be appropriate for the person, suitable for the task and used by staff who understand how to use it safely.

HSE lists a wide range of equipment that may be required in care environments, including hoists, standing aids, different types of slings, slide sheets, transfer boards and profiling beds.

What are hoists?

Hoists are designed to help move people who cannot safely complete a particular transfer without mechanical assistance.

Different hoists are intended for different purposes. These can include mobile hoists, standing or raising aids, bath hoists and equipment designed to help somebody from the floor following a fall.

The appropriate option depends on the individual assessment and the particular movement being undertaken.

Using a hoist does not automatically mean that two carers are always required. HSE guidance states that staffing should be determined through assessment, taking account of the individual, environment, transfer, equipment and staff carrying out the task.

What are slings?

A sling supports the person while they are being transferred using a compatible hoist.

Selecting the right sling is extremely important.

Slings differ in size, shape, design and intended purpose. A sling suitable for one individual or task might not be suitable for another.

HSE warns that an incorrect sling type or size can create serious risks, including inadequate support or somebody slipping from the sling. Compatibility between the sling and hoist is also important.

Staff should therefore follow the person’s assessment, manufacturer instructions and their organisation’s procedures rather than making assumptions based on appearance alone.

What are slide sheets?

Slide sheets are designed to reduce friction when repositioning somebody, commonly when assisting movement in bed.

They can reduce the amount of force staff need to apply and may make repositioning more comfortable for the person being supported.

As with other moving and handling aids, staff should be trained in their appropriate use and follow the person’s agreed handling plan.

Equipment must follow assessment

HSE states that moving and handling equipment should be introduced following assessment and used alongside the person’s care plan and manufacturer instructions.

The aim shouldn’t be to use equipment simply because it is available. The equipment needs to match the person and the task.

Inspection and maintenance matter

Hoists and slings used as workplace lifting equipment are subject to requirements under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER).

HSE says equipment and associated accessories used to lift people should normally receive a thorough examination every six months unless an appropriate examination scheme specifies otherwise. This is separate from routine maintenance and pre-use checks.

Practical equipment training

Employees need practical confidence as well as theoretical knowledge.

TJS Solutions provides People Moving & Handling Training to help Health & Social Care teams develop safer practical skills and understand how equipment fits within person-centred moving and handling practice.

Contact TJS Solutions to discuss practical moving and handling training for your team.

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