Gantry Hoists

Patient gantry hoists are a portable alternative to ceiling mounted systems. Mobile (gantry) hoist are installed without the need for mounting any additional permanent fixtures to walls or ceilings. Commonly used in homes and healthcare facilities when ceiling mounted tracks are not a viable option.

Just like a ceiling mounted installation, these versatile freestanding overhead systems are used to safely and conveniently  lift, transfer and reposition individuals with limited mobility. Enabling caregivers a safer solution for transfer without the risk and strain of manual lifting, and lowering injury risk on the individual. Hoists (patient lifts) are essential for preventing injuries and providing safe, comfortable and dignified transfers of those with limited mobility.

Gantry Hoist Key Uses & Functions:

Portable Lifting Solutions – Freestanding hoists and frames do not require permanent ceiling and wall installation and fixings. Offering greater flexibility in situations where structural changes cannot be made to a room or living area. 

Managing Diverse Needs – The stability and support of a gantry hoist offer lifting solutions to a wide range of needs for those with limited mobility. Including injury recovery, permanent mobility support needs and bariatric users.

Small Space Management – Greater flexibility for use in smaller environments where a traditional floor-based mobile hoist may not be able to easily manoeuvre.

Adjustable Support – Nearly all gantry systems can adjust their height and width, giving them the option of customisation for specific room configurations.

Positioning of the Individual – The linear mechanical action of the ceiling hoist provides an equipment transfer advantage over a floor hoist. A floor hoist operates in an arc that limits the ability to correctly position and transfer into equipment like a wheelchair. Floor hoist are often unable to be positioned closely to equipment. A ceiling hoist allows positioning directly above equipment and does not have the spatial limitations of a floor hoist, like legs contacting the base of equipment and inhibiting a correct positioning transfer.

Safety Benefits for Caregivers:

Reduced Physical Strain and Injury Risk – Eliminating the need for manual lifting and transfer. Hoist greatly reduces fatigue and the risk of back and muscle injuries or strains for caregivers.

Posture – Without the need to get into an awkward position for a manual lift. Caregivers can maintain a natural upright posture during transfer. Preventing chronic injuries from prolonged bending and twisting under the weight of the patient.

Operated by One Person – Most hoists allow a transfer by a single caregiver. Reducing the need for multiple caregivers to perform a transfer.

Workplace Health & Safety Compliance – The use of a hoist helps comply with multiple Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) regulations.

Safety Benefits for Patients:

Lower Risk of Falls – A hoist provides a controlled secure and supported lift. This greatly reduces the risk of accidental falls and drops when compared to manual handling.  

Safer Handling of Vulnerable Patients – A controlled transfer via a hoist creates a much safer environment for those with severe immobility.

Skin Protection– When used correctly, the sling helps prevent sliding that causes the skin to shear that can lead to friction wounds.

Comfort & Reduced Pressure – The hoist and sling allow the individual to be safely positioned during transfer and also provides the optimal opportunity to position the individual correctly in a chair or bed. Greatly reducing the risk of pressure injury by allowing the individual’s weight to be distributed evenly.

Anxiety Reduction – With the safer and secure transfer process thanks to the hoist and sling. Individuals will commonly become more comfortable and confident when needing to be transferred. This reducing the worry and anxiety that often comes with being moved.

Summary:

The great benefit of Gantry Hoists is that they bridge the gap between accessibility and environmental structural requirements. Offering the support of a fixed system without the need of permanent fixtures. Gantry Hoists ensure that high-quality care is provided in any care environment.

They are available as a temporary and long-term solution. Prioritising the well-being of the user and caregiver, helping to foster an environment of safety, independence and support.