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Potential problems

Problems occurring from the taskPossible remedial action
  • Unsafe techniques can cause twisting and stooping.
  • Staff may be tall, stooping further to assist.
Ensure safe method followed by all staff, keeping back straight and using predominantly leg muscles to do the work.
Carers of different heights when working together at a changing bench.Changing table/plinth/bed should be raised to a suitable height for both carers. Where possible carers should be of similar height. Taller member of staff should bend knees if able to avoid stooping.
Rolling a child on their side to insert a sling/for changing may involve increasing pressure on arms.Staff should receive regular training in moving and handling as part of their statutory training. Staff should be familiar in all techniques used.
Postures are more awkward when the child is on the floor for changing or physiotherapy.Consider using height adjustable bench. Staff should receive regular training and ask advice.

 

Problems occurring from the load or objectPossible remedial action
Child can have unpredictable movements and/or have unpredictable behaviourCheck child’s handling plan before assisting the child
Child has complex medical condition (eg. attached medical equipment, concerns about bone density)Consult handling/medical plans for appropriate advice
  • wheelchair may require significant force to move/stop it
Ensure appropriate Risk Assessment undertaken. Move wheelchair carefully, at a steady speed, and slow down especially for corners or narrow spaces
  • wheelchairs are mechanical devices and can be subject to problems/wear and tear

(ALL care and therapy equipment such as mobile hoists, all other chairs, standing frames, can be subject to wear and tear)

Castors and brakes should be checked as on-going maintenance routine. Any faults should be immediately reported.

Staff should check ALL care and therapy equipment before use.

 

Problems occurring from working environmentPossible remedial action
School furniture and equipment in the wayPrepare the environment before the task
  • uneven floor surface may cause chair to jolt, eg. through doorways
  • corridors are often busy with equipment and people, causing sudden moves/twists
  • Risk assess and consider replacement
  • make sufficient space and open doors beforehand whenever possible, avoid holding a door open and pushing at the same time
  • carpets will increase the pushing force of a wheelchair and can cause difficulty
  • opening doors can be hazardous whilst pushing a wheelchair
  • undertake a Risk Assessment and consider replacement if necessary
Protect the child in a wheelchair at all times, ensure child’s hands are not likely to be knocked when going through narrow doorsEnsure staff check child’s hands are not going to be knocked when going through doorways
Problems occurring from individual capabilitiesPossible remedial action
Staff capabilities varies according to health, fatigue, understanding levels, age, previous injury, repetition of action, pregnancy etc. Staff expertise will also vary depending on opportunities to practise skills
  • Staff to be aware of their capability. Individual assessments to be completed as appropriate.
  • Rotate staff when possible to share the work

 

Devon County Council
Devon County Council, County Hall, Topsham Road, Exeter, Devon EX2 4QD
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