BRAKES MUST BE APPLIED ON EQUIPMENT BEFORE COMMENCING A TRANSFER BRAKES MUST NOT BE APPLIED ON MOBILE HOISTS
IF YOU ARE WORKING BELOW WAIST HEIGHT IT MIGHT HELP TO KNEEL DOWN
A MINIMUM OF 2 STAFF MEMBERS IS ESSENTIAL WHEN USING A MOBILE HOIST AND RECOMMENDED WHEN USING A CEILING TRACK
Using an ‘in situ’ sling
Method
‘In situ’ slings:
are used when a child has a very supportive seating system and is hoisted for all transfers.
are made from thin, breathable materials so that they can be left in place under the child.
must be correctly positioned without creases to avoid pressure areas developing.
are fully supportive (usually head to knee) and are not suitable for toileting.
sometimes have pockets sewn into them to fold loops away into after use. Ensure these do not cause discomfort.
Check handling plan for length of loops to use for each transfer.
Before hoisting, ensure the sling is correctly positioned, including between the legs if appropriate
The sling can be removed and replaced by rolling (see techniques for applying and removing slings when child is lying) e.g. on a bed or changing bench, or for floor activities etc – check handling plan.
Before hoisting child back into their seating system, ensure there are no creases underneath them, as they will be sitting on the sling in this position for some time and folds or creases can damage the skin.