Patient safety should always be your top priority when it comes to using a patient sling. Slings, like hoists come under LOLER regulation 1998, which means they need to visually inspected every 6 months by a competent person.
However before using any sling, it is good practice to perform a quick check to make sure that the sling is in good condition and suitable for the task at hand.
- Check the label is legible:
This step is important to ensure that the sling is being used according to the manufacturer’s recommended weight capacity and patient size and meets all necessary safety standards and complies with applicable regulations. If the label is torn, damaged or worn, it may be difficult to read, then it is time to replace the sling. - Is the stitching intact?
Inspecting the seams and stitching of the sling for any signs of damage, tearing or unravelling threads. This is important because any damage to the stitching can weaken the structural integrity of the sling and can make it unsafe to use leading to risk of injury. So be sure to check this often and repair/replace as needed. - Are there any signs of wear and tear?
Inspecting the sling for any visible signs of damage such as holes, fraying, or discoloration. This is important because any damage to the sling can make it unsafe to use and can shorten the lifespan of the sling. - Check the straps are working properly and securely attached.
Some patient slings come with buckles or Velcro straps, so it is important to inspect the straps of the sling to ensure they are working properly, are securely attached and are not worn out. This is important because straps that are not working properly can make the sling unsafe to use, causing user harm. - Check for signs of excessive heat or stress.
inspect all parts of your patient sling for signs of heat damage, including discoloration or melting. Any of these signs should be addressed immediately by replacing the affected items, as excessive heat can weaken the material of the sling making it unsafe to use.
Patient slings are crucial pieces of equipment for care environments to enable users to be mobile and safe. So, you need to make sure you are carrying out these simple checks before every transfer to ensure it is safe to use. If you are unsure about the condition of your sling, please give our team a ring to arrange periodic sling inspections.