MDA/2007/031 - Patient hoists and slings

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Action:
Ensure that:

• All hoists and slings are used and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
• All sling and hoist combinations are compatible and appropriate for the patient and that risk assessments are repeated if the equipment combination or the patient’s condition changes.
• All hoists and slings are visually inspected before use and are removed from service if defects are found.
• All slings are cleaned in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
• All hoists and slings are inspected by a competent person every six months as outlined in the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER).
  

Distributed to:

NHS trusts in England - Chief Executives*
Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) - Headquarters
Healthcare Commission (CHAI) - Headquarters
Primary care trusts in England - Chief Executives*
Social services in England - Directors*

* via CE Bulletin

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