Caring for the Carers - Getting the Right Hoists to Make Workplaces Safe

Being a carer - whether it be in a hospital, an aged care facility or even in the home - can be a physically demanding job.  But to be there for the people we care for, we have to look after ourselves as well.  We have to make sure our work processes support and promote good health for everyone involved.

In the workplace, Worksafe regulations ensure that basic safety procedures are in place.  But no matter how well-versed we are in the techniques of safe lifting, we often need the right products to support our safety.  While fixed hoists are the safest, it’s sometimes unviable for hospitals and hospices to have a hoist installed in every room.  In terms of portable hoists, the Etac Molift Nomad is a popular choice, as it has excellent safety features. The Nomad uses the safe and efficient CHS  Healthcare Flexi-Link Connection system with a spring-loaded latch that clicks into place whenever it is operation carries weight.  This ensures both the user and the patient are safe during lifts.

True to its name, the Nomad is easily transported. The design includes handles at the top. It weighs just 6.8 kilograms, but has a safe working load of up to 230kg or 255kg.  It also uses light and sound alerts to indicate when the battery is in need of charging. When it does need charging.

With bariatric care becoming an increasing concern, you may also need some hoists that offer an even greater safe working load.  The Waverley Glen P600 offers the greatest capacity to bear weight of our portable hoists, lifting up to 274 kilograms with confidence.  Both products are able to be transported from room to room with one of our CHS Healthcare Floor Transport Trolleys. These were designed to support OH&S standards for nurses, carers and occupational therapists to prevent back injuries.

If you need greater weight bearing capacity than this, a fixed hoist will need to be installed.  The Waverley Glen C1000 has the highest SWL (450kg) in our range, allowing patients of all sizes to be transported with ease and respect.

Make sure your equipment protects those who need it, and those who use it. CHS Healthcare will look after both clients and their carers. Have a look here at our recent project to redevelop the Box Hill Hospital.  This showcases the best in ceiling hoist design, incorporating fixed and portable hoists incorporating more than 420 individual rail systems.