Short Description

An overhead hoist uses a sling to lift a person who is not able to transfer independently. Overhead hoists run along permanently fixed tracks. They are available in fixed and portable models. Unlike mobile hoists, they do not occupy floor space and can be operated by the person in the sling.

More Details

. Overhead hoists are easier for a carer to manoeuvre than a mobile hoist, especially over a distance, say from a bedroom to a bathroom.
. When tracking is installed throughout the house, individuals can easily be moved from one area to another without having to transfer in and out of their wheelchair.
. Some overhead hoists can be operated independently by the user using a remote control.
. Overhead track hoists require less circulation space than mobile hoists as they do not occupy floor and storage space.
. Time to perform a transfer is reduced because the equipment is permanently located where it is required.
PORTABLE OVERHEAD HOISTS eliminate the cost of in built tracks. You can have short tracks in different rooms with a portable hoist unit. The unit can be detached and carried to another room by the operator or on a trolley. This is particularly useful in a residential care or hospital environment. Portable hoists have a battery that needs to be removed and charged with a separate charger.

Features
TRACK- the hoist unit runs along a permanently fixed rail usually made of aluminium. The track can be mounted on the ceiling or in some cases on the wall.
HOIST - the hoist hangs directly under the rail and the unit lifts the user with the help of a sling attached to the spreader bar.
SPREADER BAR - is the hanger to which the sling is attached. The standard spreader bar has two arms with two hooks at each end.
SAFETY FEATURES: Most hoists are equipped with an emergency stop and lowering feature.
LOAD CAPACITY: Hoists vary in the maximum user weight permissible. Check the manufacturer's statement on weight limits as this is an important safety consideration.
HANDSET: Push button controls. A cordless hand held remote control is available, for use without a carer.
TRANSFER MOTOR - the rail system can be equipped with a transfer motor that will move the hoist horizontally along the rail. This is an essential feature when the user is operating the hoist independently.
ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS - Most hoists are battery powered and have a charging socket at one end of the rail. When the hoist is not in use, it is returned to the charging socket where it is recharged between lifts.

FEATURES OF TRACKS

STRAIGHT TRACKS
ANGLED TRACKS - enable the hoist to go around corners or change direction within a room.
TURNTABLES - allow the user to be moved manually by a carer along a straight track and to be turned through 90 degrees. The hoist moves the user onto the turntable, which then swivels to move the user onto a track running in a different direction.
X-Y TRACKING SYSTEM - also called a traverse system that is limited to one room or area. There are two fixed mounted parallel tracks on each side of the room and a moving section of track runs between the parallel tracks.
GANTRY OR FREESTANDING FRAME - is an overhead suspension system supported on four legs and moveable. The gantry frame is most often positioned over a bed for a transfer from bed to wheelchair. They are mainly designed for temporary use or if the house is not suitable to install an overhead hoist.

Factors To Consider

. Professional installation is required following assessment of the structure and integrity of the building.
. Training for everyone who uses the hoist is very important to ensure safety and competent use.
. It is important to choose the right sling for the user's needs so they are comfortable and well supported. Professional assessment is recommended. For more information ask for the ILC brochure "Guidelines to assist you when choosing a Sling."

Standards

Specific Australian Standards or other Standard(s) may be applicable for materials, manufacturing processes, or installation of some types of equipment. Compliance with relevant Standards is indicated by written certification that a product has been tested and assessed as compliant with specific Standards. Purchasers are advised to check with the supplier or manufacturer of this item as to its compliance with relevant Standard(s).