{{org_field_logo}}

{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

---

Safe Moving and Handling of Bariatric Service Users Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that {{org_field_name}} provides safe, effective, and dignified moving and handling procedures for bariatric service users while protecting the health and safety of both service users and staff. This policy outlines the best practices, training requirements, risk assessments, and specialist equipment needed to manage the care of bariatric service users safely and in compliance with Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) regulations.

This policy ensures compliance with:

• The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 – Ensures safe working practices for employees.
• The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 – Requires risk assessments and controls for safe handling.
• The Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014 – Promotes dignity and person-centred care.
• The Equality Act 2010 – Protects bariatric service users from discrimination.
• Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) Regulations – Mandates safe and appropriate moving and handling practices.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All employees, including care workers, supervisors, and managers.
• Service users who require specialist moving and handling due to their weight or mobility needs.
• External healthcare professionals, occupational therapists, and family members involved in care planning.

It covers:

• Risk assessments and care planning for bariatric service users.
• Training and competency requirements for staff.
• Specialist equipment and assistive devices.
• Safe handling techniques and emergency procedures.
• Workplace adaptations and staff well-being.

3. Definitions

• Bariatric service user – An individual with a body weight exceeding 25 stone (158 kg) who requires specialist care and equipment for safe handling.
• Manual handling – Any activity requiring the lifting, pushing, pulling, or supporting of a service user.
• Specialist equipment – Includes bariatric hoists, beds, slings, wheelchairs, and chairs designed for safe support and mobility.

4. Risk Assessments and Care Planning

4.1 Initial Assessment

• A comprehensive moving and handling risk assessment must be conducted for all bariatric service users upon referral.
• Involvement of occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and moving and handling advisors is required.
• Factors assessed include:
  • Weight and mobility level of the service user.
  • Home environment suitability (doorway widths, flooring, accessibility).
  • Specialist equipment needs (bariatric bed, hoists, chairs).
  • Number of staff required for safe transfers.
  • Potential risks to service users and care staff.

4.2 Individualised Care Plan

• Each bariatric service user must have a tailored moving and handling plan based on their assessment.
• Plans must include:
  • Preferred handling techniques that promote dignity and comfort.
  • Step-by-step guidance for transfers and repositioning.
  • Required staff-to-service user ratio for safe handling.
  • Equipment specifications (e.g., correct hoist and sling type).
  • Emergency evacuation procedures in case of fire or medical emergency.
• The Registered Manager will ensure the care plan is reviewed every six months or sooner if the service user’s condition changes.

5. Staff Training and Competency Requirements

5.1 Mandatory Moving and Handling Training

• All staff providing care to bariatric service users must complete:
  • Bariatric Moving and Handling Training.
  • Safe use of specialist equipment training.
  • Risk assessment and problem-solving workshops.
• Training covers:
  • Minimising injury risks for both staff and service users.
  • Correct use of bariatric hoists, slings, beds, and wheelchairs.
  • Safe positioning and repositioning techniques.
  • Dignity and communication strategies for service user comfort.

5.2 Competency Assessments

• Staff must pass a practical competency test before assisting bariatric service users.
• Annual refresher training is required to maintain skills.
• Supervisors conduct spot checks and direct observations to ensure compliance.

6. Specialist Equipment and Assistive Devices

6.1 Required Equipment for Bariatric Service Users

• Bariatric hoists (ceiling or mobile) – Weight capacity of 250kg+.
• Specialist bariatric beds – Reinforced frames with adjustable positioning.
• Bariatric slings – Correctly fitted and weight-rated.
• Bariatric wheelchairs and commodes – Safe seating and toileting support.
• Slide sheets and air-assisted transfer mats – Reduce friction and manual lifting strain.

6.2 Equipment Maintenance and Safety Checks

• All bariatric equipment must be inspected quarterly for wear and tear.
• Pre-use safety checks must be carried out before each transfer.
• Faulty equipment must be reported immediately to the Registered Manager and taken out of use.

7. Safe Moving and Handling Techniques

7.1 Two-Person or Multi-Person Transfers

• Bariatric service users must never be moved by a single care worker.
• Minimum two-person handling is required for all transfers, increasing based on risk assessment.

7.2 Step-by-Step Safe Transfers

Using a Bariatric Hoist

1. Ensure the service user is aware of the procedure before commencing.
2. Position the hoist correctly and attach the correct sling securely.
3. Lift slowly and smoothly while monitoring comfort and safety.
4. Guide the service user gently to the new position and check stability.

Bed to Chair Transfer (Non-Hoist Method)

1. Use a slide sheet or transfer board to reduce manual lifting strain.
2. Position two or more staff for safe leverage.
3. Ensure weight distribution is even to prevent falls or strain.
4. Encourage the service user to assist with movement if possible.

8. Emergency Procedures and Incident Reporting

8.1 Managing a Fall or Medical Emergency

• If a bariatric service user falls, staff must:
  1. Call for assistance immediately – do not attempt to lift alone.
  2. Assess for injuries and reassure the service user.
  3. Use a specialist inflatable lifting aid or emergency hoist if available.
  4. Call 999 if urgent medical support is required.

8.2 Incident Reporting

• All moving and handling incidents must be reported immediately to the Registered Manager.
• A Moving and Handling Incident Report Form must be completed for:
  • Equipment failure or malfunction.
  • Staff injury or near-miss incidents.
  • Service user distress or discomfort during transfers.
• Serious incidents must be reported to CIW within 24 hours.

9. Staff Well-being and Workplace Adaptations

• Regular manual handling assessments to prevent staff injury.
• Access to physiotherapy or occupational health support for staff experiencing strain.
• Rotation of duties to prevent overexertion for care workers supporting bariatric service users.

10. Monitoring and Compliance

• The Registered Manager ensures compliance with CIW regulations and health and safety laws.
• Quarterly moving and handling audits to assess safe practices.
• Service user and staff feedback to improve handling techniques.
• Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) inspections will review moving and handling policies during audits.

11. Related Policies

This policy should be read in conjunction with:

• Health and Safety at Work Policy (DCW16).
• Moving and Handling Policy (DCW18).
• Risk Management and Assessment Policy (DCW19).
• Infection Prevention and Control Policy (DCW17).
• Staff Safety and Abuse Prevention Policy (DCW42).

12. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required by legislative updates, CIW guidance, or operational needs.

---

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}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.