5. Checking equipment

Any equipment used in moving and handling must be checked before use. This is a legal requirement under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER)

Equipment checks under PUWER would include the following.

• Visually inspect for good working order or defects, looking for signs of wear or tear such as stitching, holes, dents, scratches, chips, fraying etc.
• Check the label on the equipment to ascertain the safe working load, cleaning instructions, disposal method etc.
• Check the brakes and any working parts
• Ensure the equipment is clean.

You must always ensure equipment is used as per the manufacturers instructions. All equipment must be measured to fit the patient securely and comfortably. Equipment that breaks or fails must be reported and disposed of according to local practice.

The LOLER regulations also require us to check slings and other attachments that are used with equipment, such as hoists and standaids, every 6 months by a competent person. Ideally a service sticker should be displayed on the equipment as proof. However records can be kept elsewhere as long as they are accessible for all staff.