Manual Handling Equipment in Aged Care: Examples, Training and Funding
Manual handling remains one of the most significant risk areas in aged care. Whether in residential aged care or home care settings, unsafe practices or outdated equipment can lead to staff injuries, client harm, and compliance issues. This guide outlines manual handling equipment in aged care, common tasks that require support, and how allied health professionals can improve safety through training and equipment reviews.
Why Manual Handling Is a High-Risk Area in Aged Care
Manual handling in aged care settings often involves high repetition, unpredictable situations, and varying staff skill levels. According to Safe Work Australia, musculoskeletal disorders are one of the leading causes of workplace injury among care workers, especially when equipment is not used correctly or assessments are out of date.
For leaders in aged care, a proactive approach to manual handling helps meet workplace safety obligations and reduces long-term risks to both staff and residents.
Key Manual Handling Tasks in RAC and Home Care
Some of the most common examples of manual handling in aged care include:
- Assisting with bed transfers, toileting, and showering
- Repositioning clients in bed or chairs
- Lifting after a fall
- Mobility support during walking
- Equipment transfers, such as wheelchairs or commodes
In residential aged care, these tasks are often supported by mechanical equipment. In-home care, staff may have to adapt to varying home environments with fewer supports in place. A proactive approach includes regular training and access to mobile therapy services, which are outlined further on our Gold Coast Home Care page.
Common Manual Handling Equipment (Hoists, Slide Sheets, Standing Aids, Transfer Benches)
Modern care settings rely on a range of tools to support safe transfers and positioning. Examples include:
- Full-body and sit-to-stand hoists
- Slide sheets and friction-reducing devices
- Transfer benches and bath boards
- Standing and pivot aids
- Mobile shower chairs and commodes
Selection should always be based on clinical need, the environment, and user capabilities. Equipment must be matched correctly to avoid injury or misuse. For broader context, see our Gold Coast Healthcare Services page, which outlines how we deliver mobile allied health input across the region.
Role of Physio and OT in Equipment Selection and Staff Training
A combined physio OT manual handling program provides facilities with accurate assessments, correct equipment prescription, and up-to-date training for care staff. Physiotherapists assist with mobility-related risk, while occupational therapists evaluate transfer function and recommend assistive technology or environmental changes.
Key contributions include:
- Transfer and mobility assessments
- Home or room layout reviews
- Staff training on the correct use of equipment
- Documentation for compliance and care planning
- Risk reduction strategies for falls or repetitive strain
Our Physiotherapy service page outlines how our allied health team works collaboratively in aged care settings.
NDIS/HCP vs RAC Funding Pathways
There are several funding models to consider for clients who require manual handling support.
Residential Aged Care (RAC)
Facilities are responsible for ensuring staff are trained, and residents have access to suitable equipment. This is reviewed under the Aged Care Quality Standards and must be documented in care planning.
Home Care Packages (HCP)
Allied health support, equipment trials, and home safety assessments can be included in HCP funding. Equipment purchases often require justification through OT reports or physiotherapy input. Learn more via our Commonwealth Home Support Program service area.
NDIS Participants
NDIS clients may access therapy, equipment, and training under Core or Capacity Building supports. Allied health reports are typically required for AT funding or home modifications.
How to Introduce a Manual Handling Review in Your Facility
If your facility or team is experiencing increased injury reports, outdated practices, or uncertainty about equipment, a formal review may be required. This can include:
- Site walk-throughs with OT and physio
- Review of common transfer tasks
- Spot checks for staff technique and equipment compliance
- Recommendations for new or upgraded tools
- Team education sessions and follow-up support
Our team provides on-site and mobile reviews across Southeast Queensland. We also support environmental changes through home modifications and equipment prescription.
Checklist and Next Steps
Use this checklist to decide whether your facility or home care team would benefit from a manual handling review:
- Have there been recent staff injuries linked to transfers?
- Are there inconsistencies in how equipment is used?
- Is training overdue or incomplete?
- Have any residents or clients experienced a transfer-related fall?
- Are staff confident using current equipment?
- Do any rooms or home layouts present a barrier to safe transfers?
If you’ve answered “yes” to one or more of these, an allied health-led review is likely warranted.
Book a Manual Handling and Equipment Review With Our Physio/OT Team
Vista Healthcare supports aged care providers and home care services with expert manual handling reviews, training and equipment advice. Our team works with managers, case coordinators and frontline staff to ensure safe, practical and compliant care environments.
Contact us today to request a consultation or book an on-site review. We service the Gold Coast, Brisbane, and Northern NSW regions with flexible appointment times and practical reporting