Moving and handling residents is an everyday part of care home operations, but it is also one of the leading causes of workplace injury in care homes. Hoists can significantly reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries to carers while providing a safer and more dignified transfer for residents.
However, employers must ensure that hoists are used correctly, maintained properly, and operated by suitably trained staff. Our guide discusses that and more.
Why are hoists used in care homes?
Hoists are lifting devices used to assist residents who have limited mobility and cannot safely stand, walk, or transfer independently. They can be used for a variety of tasks, including moving residents from beds to chairs, assisting with bathing and toileting, or transferring individuals between different locations within the care environment.
Using a suitable hoist can reduce the need for manual lifting, helping to prevent injuries to both residents and employees. However, introducing hoists alone is not enough. Employers must ensure that the equipment is appropriate for the individual, the task, and the environment in which it is being used.
Understanding employer responsibilities
Care home employers have a legal duty to protect both employees and residents from the risks associated with moving and handling activities. This includes carrying out suitable risk assessments, providing appropriate equipment, ensuring staff are trained and competent, and maintaining equipment in a safe condition.
Each resident should have an individual moving and handling assessment that identifies their needs, abilities, medical conditions, and the equipment required to transfer them safely. Care plans should be reviewed regularly and updated whenever there is a change in the health or mobility of the resident.
Choosing the right hoist
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to resident lifting and transfer. Different residents may require different types of equipment depending on their mobility, weight, level of support needed, and the layout of the care setting.
Common hoists used in care homes include:
Mobile hoists
Ceiling track hoists
Standing or sit-to-stand hoists
Bath hoists
Bariatric hoists designed for heavier residents
Employers should ensure that the hoist selected is suitable for the resident and compatible with the sling being used. Incorrect equipment selection can increase the risk of falls, entrapment, discomfort, and injury.
The importance of sling safety
Many hoist-related incidents involve the incorrect selection, fitting, or use of slings. A sling that is unsuitable for the resident or improperly attached can result in serious injury.
Staff should check slings before every use for signs of wear, damage, or contamination. The sling selected should match the resident's assessed needs and be compatible with the hoist manufacturer’s specifications. Staff must also have the necessary training to position and attach slings correctly before commencing any transfer.
Clear identification systems, such as colour coding or resident-specific allocation, can help ensure the correct sling is used.
Training and competence
Providing equipment without adequate training can create significant risks. Employers should ensure that all staff involved in resident transfers receive practical training in the safe use of hoists and associated equipment.
Training should cover:
Safe moving and handling procedures
Pre-use equipment checks, as outlined in PUWER regulations
Fitting and removing slings
Resident communication and reassurance
Emergency lowering procedures
Identifying equipment defects
Reporting incidents and concerns
Refresher training should be provided periodically and whenever new equipment or procedures are introduced.
Inspection and maintenance requirements
Hoists are lifting equipment and must be properly maintained to remain safe for use. Regular inspection, servicing, and maintenance should be carried out in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Employers should also ensure appropriate thorough examinations are undertaken by a competent person and that records are retained. Equipment found to be defective should be removed from service immediately and reported through established procedures.
Routine pre-use checks by staff can help identify issues such as damaged slings, missing clips, flat batteries, worn straps, or malfunctioning controls before an incident occurs.
Common mistakes to avoid
Several common errors continue to contribute to injuries involving hoists in care settings. These include:
Using a hoist without a completed moving and handling assessment
Selecting the wrong type or size of sling
Failing to carry out pre-use equipment checks
Allowing untrained staff to operate lifting equipment
Ignoring maintenance or inspection requirements
Rushing transfers due to staffing pressures
Attempting manual lifting when mechanical assistance is required
By addressing these issues proactively, employers can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents and injuries.
Promoting resident dignity and wellbeing
Safe hoist use is not only about compliance and injury prevention. Residents should be fully involved in the transfer process wherever possible and treated with dignity and respect throughout. Effective communication can help reduce anxiety and improve cooperation during transfers.
Care should be taken to preserve privacy, explain each stage of the process, and ensure the resident is comfortable and supported at all times.
Need additonal support? Peninsula's always available
Managing moving and handling risks in care homes can be complex, particularly where residents have changing needs and multiple staff members are involved in care delivery. Peninsula's Health & Safety experts can support employers with moving and handling risk assessments, safe systems of work, care-specific Health & Safety advice, and practical guidance on the safe use of hoists and lifting equipment.
We can help you review your current procedures, identify gaps in compliance, develop robust moving and handling arrangements, and provide expert support following incidents or near misses. Whether you operate a residential care home, nursing home, supported living service, or domiciliary care business,
Peninsula can help you create a safer environment for both staff and residents while supporting compliance with your legal Health & Safety duties.
