DC112-Safe Moving and Handling of Bariatric Service Users Policy

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

Safe Moving and Handling of Bariatric Service Users Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to provide clear guidance on the safe moving and handling of bariatric service users within our domiciliary care organisation. Bariatric service users require additional support due to their weight and associated health conditions, and their care must be delivered with dignity, safety, and adherence to best practice guidelines. Our aim is to ensure staff competency, minimise the risk of injury to both service users and caregivers, and comply with relevant health and safety legislation.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, care workers, agency staff, and managers involved in the provision of domiciliary care to bariatric service users. It covers:

Risk assessments and individual care planning.
Safe moving and handling techniques.
Equipment use and availability.
Training and competency requirements for staff.
Compliance with health and safety regulations.
Emergency procedures and contingency planning.

3. Legal and Regulatory Framework

This policy aligns with the following legislation and regulatory standards:

Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 – Requires risk assessment and control measures for manual handling tasks.
Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 – Protects employees and service users from risks associated with moving and handling.
Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) 1998 – Governs the safe use of lifting equipment.
Care Quality Commission (CQC) Fundamental Standards – Ensures safety, dignity, and high-quality care provision.
Equality Act 2010 – Ensures non-discriminatory practices and reasonable adjustments for bariatric service users.

4. Risk Assessment and Individual Care Planning

A comprehensive risk assessment is conducted for every bariatric service user, considering:

The service user’s weight, mobility level, and medical conditions.
The home environment, including door widths, flooring, and space availability.
The type of equipment required, such as hoists, bariatric beds, or wheelchairs.
Number of carers needed to safely assist with moving and handling tasks.
Service user preferences, promoting dignity and person-centred care.

Risk assessments are reviewed regularly and updated as service users’ needs change.

5. Safe Moving and Handling Techniques

To prevent injury and ensure the dignity of service users, care workers must follow safe moving and handling principles:

Plan each move carefully and communicate clearly with the service user.
Use proper body mechanics, avoiding manual lifting where possible.
Ensure weight distribution is stable before assisting the service user.
Work in pairs or teams where necessary to reduce physical strain.
Use verbal and non-verbal cues to reassure and involve the service user in movements.
Avoid sudden movements, reducing the risk of falls or injury.

6. Equipment Use and Availability

To support safe handling, {{org_field_name}} ensures the availability of suitable bariatric care equipment, including:

Bariatric Hoists – Mobile or ceiling hoists to assist with transfers.
Bariatric Beds and Mattresses – Reinforced beds designed to accommodate higher weight limits.
Bariatric Wheelchairs and Commodes – Providing comfortable and stable mobility support.
Slide Sheets and Transfer Boards – Reducing friction and easing repositioning.
Standing Aids and Walking Frames – Promoting mobility and independence where possible.

All equipment is regularly inspected and maintained in compliance with LOLER regulations.

7. Training and Staff Competency

All care workers receive specialist training in:

Bariatric service user handling techniques.
Safe use of hoists, slings, and transfer equipment.
Risk assessment and dynamic decision-making.
Infection control related to moving and handling.
Emergency response procedures for handling falls or medical incidents.

Refresher training is provided annually to ensure continued competency.

8. Communication and Dignity Considerations

Maintaining the dignity and respect of bariatric service users is a core priority. Care workers must:

Use person-centred language and avoid stigmatizing terminology.
Respect service user preferences regarding how they are moved and assisted.
Explain all procedures clearly before carrying out moving and handling tasks.
Ensure privacy is maintained during transfers and personal care tasks.
Encourage service user involvement in decision-making wherever possible.

9. Emergency Procedures and Contingency Planning

In the event of an emergency, such as a fall or medical deterioration, staff must:

Call for emergency assistance (999 or 112) if necessary, providing details about the service user’s weight and mobility requirements.
Follow safe recovery techniques, avoiding unsafe manual lifting.
Utilise lifting cushions or emergency hoists where available.
Monitor the service user’s condition and provide reassurance until help arrives.
Report the incident to management and update the risk assessment accordingly.

10. Compliance Monitoring and Continuous Improvement

To ensure adherence to best practices, {{org_field_name}}:

Conducts regular audits of moving and handling practices.
Reviews incident reports to identify and address risks.
Seeks feedback from service users and staff on handling procedures.
Updates training and equipment in line with technological advancements and regulatory changes.
Works collaboratively with occupational therapists and healthcare professionals to improve handling techniques and service user outcomes.

11. Policy Review and Updates

This policy is reviewed annually or sooner if significant updates in legislation or best practices occur. Any amendments are communicated to staff, and additional training is provided where necessary.

Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
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