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Patient lifting hoists are one of the many ways that people who live with disability move around. These hoists are especially popular with group homes and customer homes as most of them are portable and are easy to use.
However just like our mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs, our patient lifting hoists needs to be maintained regularly to ensure that they’re running smoothly and optimally. Hoists that aren’t regularly maintained can unexpectedly break down causing distress for users.
There are signs that you can look out for that usually gives you an early indicator whether a hoist is starting to wear down.
Handset
A handset is one of the crucial elements of a hoist as it’s the one equipment that makes the hoist move. Most often issues with hoists starts at the handset; if the hoist isn’t responding to what you press on the handset then it may be because your handset is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Additionally if the handset is cracked, damaged or shows signs of physical stress then it could also mean the inside is also damaged so have it replaced as soon as you suspect damage. The cord that connects to the handset to the hoist should be in good condition, ensure that it’s not stretched in any place and you can’t see any wires.
Actuator
When the actuator moves the boom up and down it’s important that it does this smoothly and freely. If you hear any ticking, grinding or any other noise then that can be an early sign of a potential failure. Additionally when looking over the hoist, check that the padding on the boom and spreader bar is in place, intact and that the spreader bar can move freely. Finally check that all pins, bolts and clips that attaches the spreader bar to the boom are in good condition.
Base Legs
When testing the base legs ensure that they’re able to do their full range of movement and that they can lock in both open and closed positions. Confirm that that all bolts in the base legs are secure and none are missing. If you see any cracks or bends in the legs, mast or boom then do not use the hoist and call our repair team immediately on 02 9649 2111.
Castors
Similarly movement is key with castors. Make sure that you’re able to turn and pivot them freely and that when you apply the brake the castors aren’t able to turn and the hoist cannot move. Once the brakes are released test to see that you can move the hoist without any unusual noise or interference.
If the hoist isn’t working as it should or you suspect that there is something wrong with it in general then our service department has over 30 years experience. They know our hoists inside and out and will be able to assist you in getting moving again should your hoist break down. Additionally if extensive repairs are required we have a fully equipped workshop that allows us to bring the hoist in and have our service team have it back up and running as quickly as possible.