Harnesses or slings are supports that use a strap or seat clip system to support people as they transfer within a lifting or carrying device such as a mobile or overhead hoist. They usually have multiple attachment points and are held by a spreader bar onto the lifting device. A large range of sling or harness models are available including:
- mesh slings that can be used within the shower and allow for water drainage
- toilet or commode slings to allow for toileting access and easier dressing
- slings with or without head support or extra padding
- slings designed for double leg amputations or for people with larger frames
- slings which require the user to assist in their use, through to models for those that are fully dependent on the carer for movement
- slings which allow movement in the sitting position for those with head control, through to fully reclined models for those with limited postural control.
Harnesses are also available to assist people with mobility restrictions to walk or practice walking or to move from lying or sitting into a standing position. With the harness on, they are attached overhead to a track system for support to minimise the need of the carer or health professional to support their weight.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
Harnesses or slings maximise safety and prevent injury to those assisting the person being lifted. They can be used by people requiring carer support within the workplace for personal care needs, or for carers working within the healthcare industry to minimise the risk of injury through manual handling of patients.
The provision of harnesses and slings should be part of an integrated organisational approach to occupational health and safety, and should be used to complement other control methods. Harnesses and slings should be provided where it is not possible for an employer to eliminate or control fall or lifting hazards via other control methods.
When considering a harness or sling, the products listed below may be of interest:
References
WorkCover NSW 2010, Personal protective equipment, NSW Government, Sydney, viewed 30 November 2011, http://www.workcover.nsw.gov.au/healthsafety/healthsafetytopics/Personalprotectiveequipment/Pages/default.aspx.
Standards Australia and Standards New Zealand 2007, AS/NZS 1891:2007: Industrial fall—arrest systems and devices, Part 1: Harnesses and ancillary equipment.