General Guidelines for Moving & Handling

• Before carrying out any moving or handling procedure, a thorough risk assessment should be carried out to evaluate whether the equipment being used is fit for purpose
• The equipment should only be used by those who have had specific moving and handling training. If you are in doubt about any procedure please consult your moving and handling advisor
• When using a transfer belt or sling the client must be able to provide the majority of standing effort, they are designed as aids to control movement and to provide support. If you find yourself supporting a load of more than 10kg (e.g. a bag of groceries) assist the client to a safe sitting position as soon as possible
• Transfer belts and slings should not be used to lift the client under any circumstances
• You must be able to let go of the belt should a client trip or fall to help prevent both parties being injured. Therefore, you must not fit your hands or wrists through the belt loops or handles
• Due to the low friction nature of slidesheets they should never be left unattended and should be stored safely after use
• Always ensure that any areas of the client’s anatomy that could be affected by friction (e.g heels, elbows) during the procedure are adequately protected
• Before each use check the item for any damage, tearing or fraying (paying particular attention to seams and buckles). If there are any signs of wear take the item out of service immediately