Wheelchair scripting - Insight into the process of creating a supporting and comfortable seating solution! It is important when reaching out for support to script or modify a wheelchair, that there is a suitably qualified individual who is able to assess your postural and functional needs and identify how wheelchair accessories and their placement can offset the risk of their current seating circumstances. ➡At the initial assessment, the Occupational Therapist or Physiotherapist will listen to your goals, your history and any challenges that you may have with current seating. ➡They will then liaise with you about having a MAT assessment done (a postural assessment of your body in a seated position) ➡ Wheelchairs and their accessories can then be scripted and trialled for their effectiveness in maximising function and maintaining comfort. Often when a wheelchair is scripted or revised, an Assistive Technology report needs to be completed, in order for the NDIA to assess the need as 'reasonable and necessary', so that finds can be made available in your Capital Supports budget to fund the purchase. For more information, you can reach out to us on 1300 661 670 or place an enquiry through our website www.safeworkpractice.com.au... See MoreSee Less
When talking about risk management, once the risk is identified and risk assessed, one needs to follow the Hierarchy of Controls to guide their hazard reduction/management process.
The best way to reduce the risk of a hazard, is to eliminate it completely. Whether it be replacing a manual 'human task' with a machine, or omitting the step completely through automation.
Substitution is when the hazard is still present, but the risk can be reduced by substituting something to lower its impact. This might mean using a trolley to transport materials rather than carrying them.
You can see by the inverted triangle that the items at the top are most effective at reducing risk, compared to the ones on the bottom.
Pre employment assessments (PEA's) are typically a physical evaluation of your physical capacity and/or fitness to work against the physical demands of a job.
PEA's might involve: ➡ Taking a thorough medical history relevant to your physical performance ➡ Performing range of joint movement exercises ➡ Performing a range of functional tasks (squat, lunge, kneel, movement of material objects)
This information is then provided to the employer that can consider whether you meet the physical requirements of their job and whether your physical performance increases their liability should you become injured at work. ... See MoreSee Less
Safe Operating Procedures are a set of instructions that a PCBU must provide to their workers in order for them to understand how to perform tasks in their job role. There is legislation both Nationally and at a state level, that provide guidance on the scope of instruction that is required by a PCBU.
As WHS health professionals, we spend a lot of time working with organisations on creating customised SOP's for their organisation. We have our own library (job dictionary) with SOP's that align with our manual handling training, to provide a generic set of instructions for the task. However, workplaces are required to ensure that their SOP's are specific to their organisation. As such, we work with businesses to use our existing templates as a base to modify to the organisation's specific needs to reduce the cost and time to produce a high quality set of instructions.
If you'd like a preview of the quality of our SOP's, please feel welcome to view this example or reach out at info@safeworkpractice.com.au for more examples and information on how we could assist your organisation with this necessary set of instructions. #safeoperatingprocedure#SOP#healthcare#healthcare#adelaide... See MoreSee Less
How does a 'stand aid' differ from a 'stand lifter'?
This is often a mis-understood area of expertise that healthcare workers find difficulty in comprehending. In this example we will compare the SARA steady and a typical stand lifter.
A stand lifter is a mechanical tool that can assist a person from a sitting to a semi-standing position. The main points to remember when operating a stand lifter are: ➡ that the individual must have independent trunk/head control, have some form of reliable weight bearing, be able to grasp/release their hands and follow instructions ➡ that the individual requires a sling that is fitted 1 hand width under their armpit, down to the top of their pelvis ➡ that the lifter requires the individual to lean backwards and push up to stand through their legs leveraging off the foot plate, whilst holding on. ➡ the individual must hold the 3/4 stand during the pivot transfer ➡ the breaks must be OFF during lifting/ transfer and lowering to enable the lifter to centre the load ➡ the individual must only come into a 3/4 stand so that the sling doesn't ride up and allow the individual to fall through *** Noting that leaning backwards is not the natural biomechanics of standing.
As opposed to a SARA steady, which is a non mechanical aid to assist with the standing and transfer of an individual. ➡ that the individual must have independent trunk/head control, have some form of reliable weight bearing, be able to grasp/release their hands and follow instructions ➡ the truck sling is optional ➡ the individual needs to lean forwards holding the bar in front of them and pull themselves up into a stand ➡ there are lateral paddles that are pivoted behind the individual for them to sit during the transfer ➡ brakes are required for sitting and standing, off only for the transfer
As manual handling trainers, we encourage healthcare professionals to consider using a SARA steady over a stand lifter, as it follows the natural biomechanics of standing, reduces the risk of falling and empowers the individual to participate as much as they can. #standaid#sarasteady#manualhandling... See MoreSee Less
Working in this industry for over 15 years, I have seen the work related injury claims change over time. 15 years ago (even up to 8 years ago), musculoskeletal related injuries accounted for more injuries than anything else - particularly back and neck injuries.
Reviewing Safe Work Australia's 2024 statistics, the highest cause of work cover claims is now psychological injury. In addition to this, it is a higher percentage of women who have active claims for psychological injury, compared to men who have a higher incidence of musculoskeletal injury.
Another interesting fact is that the number of diseases from the workplace is up at 35%, compared to 65% from traumatic injuries. COVID 19 in particular accounts for an additional 8000 of worker compensation claims sin the 12 months preceding 2024. #WorkCoverInjury#workinjury#injury#adelaide... See MoreSee Less
Empowering individuals who require physical assistance to move their body.
As a manual handling trainer, I see more workers than not, performing the entirety of the physical task for the individual in need of assistance. In most cases, the individual can assist with the movement and better yet - it empowers them to initiate and complete something that will give them a sense of achievement / independence.
So what are some of the ways that we as healthcare workers can empower the individuals we are supporting? Here are 4 simple ways to achieve this!
✅ Work out how the person communicates. Use this method to explain the task and how they can help ✅ Position equipment in a way that enhances the success of the movement (e.g. raise the back rest on the bed half way, adjust the height of the bed) ✅ Ask consent to proceed, explain to the individual how they can initiate the movement in their own time ✅ Ask the individual to look in the direction of the movement (muscles will follow suit and assist the movement)
The training that we provide focuses heavily on empowerment of the supported individual, which gives the supported individual their power back, but it reduces the physical support that the worker is needing to provide. #manualhandling#adelaide#healthcare#empower#NDIS... See MoreSee Less
In the healthcare industry, one of the most physically demanding parts of the job is the manual handling of people.
Often the individuals who require physical support present with a multitude of variables, which can be challenging to navigate safely if you are inexperienced. Some of the needs that supported individuals have might include: ➡ Supporting an individual with physical impairment ➡ Supporting an individual with high or low tone ➡ Supporting an individual that may experience seizures ➡ Supporting an individual that may have trouble managing and expressing emotions, potentially presenting with combative actions ➡ Supporting individuals who are bariatric ➡ Supporting individuals with a cognitive or intellectual impairment
This is why Safe Work Practice teaches this subject around safe principles of manual handling. There is no "right way" to perform a task, because individual needs are different. By empowering workers with safe principles, they are able to make informed decisions about the safest way to support an individual in need whilst empowering them to participate. #ManualHandling#adelaide#healthcare#disability#NDIS... See MoreSee Less
'Ergonomic' is the term used to describe a customised healthy working environment for an individual.
More often than not, ergonomic assessments occur for workers who are in a sedentary role, as the effects of sedentary work places excess pressure on the body due to the sustained force.
The "ideal" workplace would ensure that the worker: ➡ is able to remain as anatomically neutral as possible ➡ offers an efficient method or workflow ➡ enables frequent bodily position changes ➡ can be customised to suit the individual bodily requirements of different workers
Did you know that a 70kg worker who is slumped in their chair has the SAME amount of force going through their back as a worker lifting a 100kg weight! Sometimes it's not the task that poses the risk, it is the way the task is performed!
Did you know that there is legislating mandating that a Person Conducting Business or Undertakings must: ✅ensure the health and safety of workers and others at your workplace ✅consult with workers who carry out work for the business or undertaking and who are (or are likely to be) directly affected by a health and safety matter, and ✅consult cooperate and coordinate activities with all other relevant duty holders.
Depending on your workplace, this legislation requires your to identify, risk assess and risk manage foreseeable risk within the workplace.
Safe Work Practice has a robust job dictionary aimed at health workers and providing them clear Safe Operating Instructions for job roles ranging from acute care to residential and community care. These can be tailored to your specific workplace should you wish to create a job dictionary for your workplace without 'reinventing the wheel'.
Scope of a physiotherapist.... this is a question we are often asked as the scope of a physiotherapist can be quite broad!
In our team, we are extremely grateful to have 7 highly experienced physiotherapists that enable our team to have a wide scope of experience.
So what can our physiotherapy team do? ✅ Manual Handling Plans ✅ Manual Handling Training ✅ Functional Capacity Assessments - for individuals with physical disabilities ✅ Equipment/ AT assessment and prescription (including complex wheelchair and sleep system scripting) ✅ Therapy - we offer land based clinic and home therapy, we offer hydrotherapy and we also have a one of a kind ceiling hoist to enable our physiotherapists with a near background to offload different weights in a hoist lifter WHILST the user is weight bearing!!! This isn't something that can be done in any ceiling hoist with any sling!
Manual Handling Plans - what are they and why are they beneficial?🙋♀️
"A 'Manual Handling Plan' is a set of instructions and descriptions that provide the wishes and the needs of a person that requires physical support to move their body".
➡ A Physiotherapist or Occupational Therapist will conduct an 'in home' manual handling assessment, looking at how the person moves and what physical support they require to complete the task. ➡ A manual handling plan will look at everything from how to move between a bed and a chair, to how the person mobilises, positioning to eat/drink (if applicable), how the person accesses the community and how they engage in tasks of interest.
✅ A great manual handling plan will always have the individual at the centre of mind and consult with them and their family/ supports to ensure that the person's wishes are directing the assessment ✅ A great manual handling plan details specific step by step instructions on how to support the individual with the task. This includes but is not limited to what equipment is required and how to use it, preferences for seated and lying postures and when and how support is needed. ✅ A great manual handling plan will have pictures (with consent) showing the steps required to support the individual ✅ The scope of the manual handling plan should always align with the manual handling training that is offered to support the individual's needs.
Our team have been teaching manual handling training and writing manual handling plans for more than 20 years. We have a solid understanding of risk management and how to work with the individual and abide by the legislative requirements to create a plan that maintains independence and choice for the individual, whilst meeting WHS requirements. ... See MoreSee Less
Wheelchairs - boy have the choices of accessories and customisation changed in the last decade!
A wheelchair is often an individual's primary equipment to enable them to be mobile. Some individuals are needing to spend 8-12 hours in their seated equipment - meaning that not only is postural support important, but also the functionality!
So what else is available in the equipment market? ➡ Power assist devices. These attach to the existing wheelchair and enable the wheelchair user and/or their support person to electronically power a manual wheelchair. Essentially turning a manual chair to a power chair, but with the ease of folding storage for vehicle transport. ➡ Interchangeable accessories. Leg rests, calf rests, head supports, arm rests, lateral supports - many of these accessories have compatible hardware between different brands. Choosing the most appropriate accessory is where an OT or Physiotherapist can assist, as they look at how to maintain neutral posture and maximise independence with function. ➡ One arm drive capability. People who have had a brain or spinal cord injury that affects one arm often find themselves propelling with one arm and steering with one foot, often going in circles. Some manual chairs have a 'one arm drive' feature to enable the user to propel forward/ backward and turn all with one arm! ➡ We will do a seperate post on wheelchair cushions and back rests - as they are soooooo diverse, but almost all cushions and back rests are compatible with any model of wheelchair.
If you'd like to learn more, you are welcome to reach out to our team who can assist you to navigate through this process of selecting what will work right for you. ... See MoreSee Less
The 'Life Box'! What is it and why is it important to assess for a person who has challenges maintaining a neutral posture? ➡ The 'life box' is a term used by clinicians to describe the available space between an individual's rib cage and pelvis. ➡ The 'life box' contains vital organs and as such, it is ideal to maintain a SQUARE or RECTANGULAR life box to allow the body to function as intended. ➡ When a person has an asymmetrical life box (triangular frontal plane or anterior/posterior pelvic tilt), the posture may permanently affect the functioning of these vital organs, complicating the health of the individual. ✅ Having a thorough MAT assessment (mechanical assessment tool) by a qualified practitioner can identify what unique posture an individual has and use customised postural supports to maintain this vital 'life box'. If you or someone you know has challenges with maintaining neutral anatomical posture, you are welcome to reach out to our highly experienced team to assist with reviewing postural support strategies to maximise optimal health outcomes for the individual ... See MoreSee Less
What is a MAT assessment? ➡ A 'MAT' assessment is an abbreviation for 'Mechanical Assessment Tool' ➡ A 'MAT assessment' is a tool used by Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists to assess your resting posture in either a seated or lying position.
✅ These assessments enable the practitioner to custom script a variety of equipment supports to match your unique functional needs and postural requirements ➡ This type of assessment might be used to script/build you a custom wheelchair ➡ This type of assessment might be used to build/script a sleep system
MAT assessments should be performed regularly when a person has challenges with maintaining a neutral body position, to make sure that equipment is adjusted to ensure comfort and to maximise functional movement - particularly for those with conditions that are progressive in nature.
✅ Our team of 6 Occupational Therapists and 7 Physiotherapists have extensive experience with MAT assessments and can work with suppliers to customise an ideal seated or lying script to meet your needs.
Feel welcome to reach out if you'd like some more information about this process and to learn more about the importance of having access to a customised postural support system to maximise your functional capacity ... See MoreSee Less
Our team enjoyed some lovely company at our bi-yearly get together. Our team loves to participate in social events, this year we did The Handlebar followed by some wonderful food.
A shout out to our AMAZING TEAM, you are all incredible and we are so humbled to have such amazing colleagues.
Wishing everyone a very merry Christmas, thank you for all of your support in 2024.
To our valued clients, advocates, support coordinators and families, we will remain open as usual over the festive season should you require support. ❤️ ... See MoreSee Less
Risk Assessment? What is it and what does this look like in the context of 'Hazardous Manual Tasks'?
Risk assessment is a tasks that all organisations and individuals should be doing. In fact, you would already be doing it!! Whether it be judging when to cross a busy road, or farseeing risks when parenting a toddler.... We have all had experience in identifying and assessing the risk of a task and predicting how likely an adverse outcome may be.
In the context of 'Hazardous Manual Tasks', as Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists, we may be assessing a wide variety of risks in your workplace or with a client, stemming from risks within the environment to risks with the way a client is physically supported.
All workplaces should have a system of documenting 'Risk Assessment', as part of their Risk Management Register. The scope of assessing the risk in terms of client care usually falls within the scope of practice of their Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist, Allied Health Practitioner or Registered Nurse; who may be responsible for overseeing their 'manual handling plan', 'behaviour support plan', 'healthcare plan' etc.
At Safe Work Practice, this is our bread and butter. We have a wide range of templates for the common tasks that require 'Risk Assessment' within client and corporate settings, including SOP's for various client care and industrial tasks. These templates can be tailored to the unique needs of the corporate setting or client care scenario to make it an easier process of developing such documentation.
If you wish to receive further information on how Safe Work Practice can support you, your client or your organisation, please feel welcome to reach out on 1300 661 670, by email info@safeworkpractice.com.au or through our website www.safeworkpractice.com.au
Manual Handling Training - what are employers obligations under WHS Regulation 39 of the Work Health and Safety Regulations 2012?
An employer in South Australia, under the WHS Health and Safety Regulations 2012, must provide evidence of education to workers that is: - relevant for their scope of practice - that is easily accessible - a system to document that they have understood and can demonstrate the information provided - and that the training is provided by a professional that is qualified to provide it.
Now more than ever, we are being contacted by organisations to support them in meeting this criteria. Whether it be for improvements in their organisation, or for support with upcoming audits or whether it be that we provide face to face training; supplemented with an optional online portal for ongoing reference to content.
Our trainers are industrial Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists who actively work within the NDIS, Aged Care and Occupational Rehabilitation settings; so not only do their know their stuff, but they put it into relatable context.
If you'd like to see how Safe Work Practice can assist your organisation to improve or maintain your current education in this area of expertise, please feel welcome to reach out to us on 1300 661 670, by email info@safeworkpractice.com.au or through our website www.safeworkpractice.com.au
With Christmas fast approaching, many providers are shutting down during the festive period. As we understand that your needs don't 'pause' during this period of time, we would like to share that Safe Work Practice will be open as usual during the festive period, closed only on public holidays. We also have access to Assistive Technology hire/purchase items with Homecare Equipment also being open during this period, for all of your urgent needs. We wish everyone a safe and merry Christmas and thank you for your support in 2024. ... See MoreSee Less
Train the Trainer: What is it and how does it empower your business to internally up skill and provide mentoring to workers 365 days of the year?
Safe Work Practice has a number of 'train the trainer' programs, that provide an intensive 1 or 2 day course to workers on safe manual handling practices in their industry.
The aim of 'train the trainer' is that the people who undergo the course, can provide mentoring to there staff in their team on this subject matter. This empowers employers, as they then have in-house mentors who can assist with new employees or where risk management is required.
'Manual Handling -related injuries' - in 2022 and 2023, in Australia there was 497, 300 work place injuries. 24% of these injuries were because of poor manual handling practices - lifting, pushing, pulling, rotating, sustaining and awkward posture.
Although workers may have been 'in the industry' for some time, safe manual handling practices evolve over time, as does the assistive equipment available to reduce manual load.
Regular and customised workplace manual handling training helps to educate and empower the workforce and help promote health and wellness.
At Safe Work Practice, we educate workers in both the health and industrial sectors across Australia. Providing customised scope of training to each workplace by experienced Senior Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists.
We also offer e-learning resources that can provide a reference for workers, to prompt them on the key points of actions they have learnt through face to face training.
Hazardous Manual Tasks. What are they and why is identification and risk management so important? A 'Hazardous Manual Task', is defined by Safe Work Australia as as task that is: - repetitive or sustained - requires an awkward posture - exposes the workers vibration - involves restraining a person or animal - involves an unstable or unbalanced load It is important that workers and employers understand and identify these traits, to provide customised 'Manual Handling Training' to their staff. Employers have obligations under the various legislation in your state and the 'Hazardous Manual Tasks Code of Practice 2018'. ... See MoreSee Less
If you are looking for something to do this Friday and Saturday, the Disability and Lifestyles expo is on from 10am to 4pm.
Our other side of our business, Equipt To Thrive will be exhibiting.
We would love you to visit us for a chat (booth 120 near the stage) and we will be showing some videos of our new Guldmann G3 gait training hoist! We boast the only one in South Australia! It can assist people who are non ambilant to stand and walk in a fully supported system.
With the challenges in todays society and the pressures that we all face, just sending out a reminder to check in with those around you and see how they are travelling ❤️ ... See MoreSee Less
Exciting decision! Installation of a gait training hoist!
Lisa our Director visited Melbourne recently and had the pleasure of trialling the Guldmann GH3 hoist. Unlike other ceiling hoists, it SENSES when a person needs to go up/ down/ forwards/ sidewards as it is designed for walking and gait training.
Lisa was blown away and has purchased one for our neuro-gym in Mawson Lakes. We will be sending out plenty of updates, but the opportunities for the community this could create is beyond amazing! Imagine being able to have the opportunity to stand or walk on land, outside that of a hydrotherapy pool!
Mental Health - It is becoming more important in these challenging times of financial pressure and especially working with/ supporting/ being an individual who has a disability.
This year we have dedicated to implementing some wellness strategies in our practice (most commencing August 2024), to try and provide more flexibility for challenging days/ to check in with ones self/ to implement some strategies on work time to declutter the mind and reset.
So far we have: 🌟 workers who roster themselves around their life, rather than the other way around 🌟 option to work from home or our office 🌟 a kitchen stocked full of goodies for our staff to enjoy (and some to share with those who come into our space) 🌟 "no questions asked" personal days that do not require a sick certificate 🌟 Senior team oversight (debriefing/ mentoring)
From August we will be introducing paid options of weekly: 💓 yoga 💓 breath work 💓 mindfulness 💓 ice baths (yes you read that correctly!) 💓 sound baths 💓 we won't give the last one away to our staff but it results in those good belly laughs!
It is so important to look after your mental wellness, watch this space for some more tips that we would love to share with you all and how our practice is supporting our staff to offset the risk of industrial burnout, compassion fatigue and sometimes just life.
NB: Some pictures are of the director Lisa learning these techniques on wellness retreats, photos shared with consent.
We have successfully finished filming some manual handling training SOP's for a corporate client on how to safely load, unload and restrain a wheelchair in an accessible vehicle, including how to use the manual over ride functions.
This space can be tricky to navigate and unfortunately we see so many people in our community restrained incorrectly. What is even more worrying, on this adventure we discovered that a roadworthy certificate is not required in SA as it is in other states to ensure the vehicle is compliant with the road safety legislation 😳 (although many get it voluntarily).
Some of the main points to remember: ✅ restraints should be as parallel as possible between the wheelchair tie down point and the vehicle floor restraint ✅ restraints should be 45 degrees from floor level once that are attached to the tie down point on the chair ✅ NEVER cross restraints ✅ Always travel in a crash tested wheelchair with it's original tie downs and travel with a head rest ✅ You are required to wear a seatbelt under the road safety laws, even if you have a lap support and/pr postural support
This is a nice little article summarising some of the initiatives across Australia to support those with powered chairs and scooters when things breakdown or go flat roadside.
In SA we are a little more limited with what RAA can provide, however there are other options and this article gives an 'easy to read' overview of how it works.
Roadside assistance services are available to help you should your wheelchair or motorised mobility scooter or gopher have a flat tyre or breakdown. We list some of the options available.
Salisbury Aquatic Centre! We went to check it out this week and were quite impressed so far. Here's our feedback, but overall we give it the thumbs up 👍👍for accessibility. Accessible change rooms are actually accessible! ✅ ceiling hoist compatible with loop slings ✅ electric height adjustable change table (downside is it appears to be inaccessible on one side which may prove challenging for those requiring more than 1:1) ✅ accessible toilet with drop down and fixed rails ✅ accessible shower with bench, handheld and pool chair that could be used as a commode Pool Access is via: 🏊🤽♀️👩🦽 ✅ (transfer with hoist to pool chair in change room) pool chair via the ramp to enter one of the two indoor pools ✅ the ramps with rails ✅ the steps with rails The staff are still sorting out whether they loan equipment for hydrotherapy, so for now it is BYO and watch their space. We hope this information helps your planning if you want to visit 😊 ... See MoreSee Less
Wheelchair scripting - Insight into the process of creating a supporting and comfortable seating solution!
It is important when reaching out for support to script or modify a wheelchair, that there is a suitably qualified individual who is able to assess your postural and functional needs and identify how wheelchair accessories and their placement can offset the risk of their current seating circumstances.
➡At the initial assessment, the Occupational Therapist or Physiotherapist will listen to your goals, your history and any challenges that you may have with current seating.
➡They will then liaise with you about having a MAT assessment done (a postural assessment of your body in a seated position)
➡ Wheelchairs and their accessories can then be scripted and trialled for their effectiveness in maximising function and maintaining comfort.
Often when a wheelchair is scripted or revised, an Assistive Technology report needs to be completed, in order for the NDIA to assess the need as 'reasonable and necessary', so that finds can be made available in your Capital Supports budget to fund the purchase.
For more information, you can reach out to us on 1300 661 670 or place an enquiry through our website www.safeworkpractice.com.au ... See MoreSee Less
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When talking about risk management, once the risk is identified and risk assessed, one needs to follow the Hierarchy of Controls to guide their hazard reduction/management process.
The best way to reduce the risk of a hazard, is to eliminate it completely. Whether it be replacing a manual 'human task' with a machine, or omitting the step completely through automation.
Substitution is when the hazard is still present, but the risk can be reduced by substituting something to lower its impact. This might mean using a trolley to transport materials rather than carrying them.
You can see by the inverted triangle that the items at the top are most effective at reducing risk, compared to the ones on the bottom.
Keep following this process until you have come up with a solution/s to reduce the risk of the hazard in your workplace. You can learn more about Hierarchy of Control here
www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/Hierarchy_of_Controls_02.01.23_form_508_2.pdf ... See MoreSee Less
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Pre Employment Assessments 👨🔧
Pre employment assessments (PEA's) are typically a physical evaluation of your physical capacity and/or fitness to work against the physical demands of a job.
PEA's might involve:
➡ Taking a thorough medical history relevant to your physical performance
➡ Performing range of joint movement exercises
➡ Performing a range of functional tasks (squat, lunge, kneel, movement of material objects)
This information is then provided to the employer that can consider whether you meet the physical requirements of their job and whether your physical performance increases their liability should you become injured at work. ... See MoreSee Less
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Safe Operating Procedures
Safe Operating Procedures are a set of instructions that a PCBU must provide to their workers in order for them to understand how to perform tasks in their job role. There is legislation both Nationally and at a state level, that provide guidance on the scope of instruction that is required by a PCBU.
As WHS health professionals, we spend a lot of time working with organisations on creating customised SOP's for their organisation. We have our own library (job dictionary) with SOP's that align with our manual handling training, to provide a generic set of instructions for the task. However, workplaces are required to ensure that their SOP's are specific to their organisation. As such, we work with businesses to use our existing templates as a base to modify to the organisation's specific needs to reduce the cost and time to produce a high quality set of instructions.
If you'd like a preview of the quality of our SOP's, please feel welcome to view this example or reach out at info@safeworkpractice.com.au for more examples and information on how we could assist your organisation with this necessary set of instructions. #safeoperatingprocedure #SOP #healthcare #healthcare #adelaide ... See MoreSee Less
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How does a 'stand aid' differ from a 'stand lifter'?
This is often a mis-understood area of expertise that healthcare workers find difficulty in comprehending. In this example we will compare the SARA steady and a typical stand lifter.
A stand lifter is a mechanical tool that can assist a person from a sitting to a semi-standing position. The main points to remember when operating a stand lifter are:
➡ that the individual must have independent trunk/head control, have some form of reliable weight bearing, be able to grasp/release their hands and follow instructions
➡ that the individual requires a sling that is fitted 1 hand width under their armpit, down to the top of their pelvis
➡ that the lifter requires the individual to lean backwards and push up to stand through their legs leveraging off the foot plate, whilst holding on.
➡ the individual must hold the 3/4 stand during the pivot transfer
➡ the breaks must be OFF during lifting/ transfer and lowering to enable the lifter to centre the load
➡ the individual must only come into a 3/4 stand so that the sling doesn't ride up and allow the individual to fall through
*** Noting that leaning backwards is not the natural biomechanics of standing.
As opposed to a SARA steady, which is a non mechanical aid to assist with the standing and transfer of an individual.
➡ that the individual must have independent trunk/head control, have some form of reliable weight bearing, be able to grasp/release their hands and follow instructions
➡ the truck sling is optional
➡ the individual needs to lean forwards holding the bar in front of them and pull themselves up into a stand
➡ there are lateral paddles that are pivoted behind the individual for them to sit during the transfer
➡ brakes are required for sitting and standing, off only for the transfer
As manual handling trainers, we encourage healthcare professionals to consider using a SARA steady over a stand lifter, as it follows the natural biomechanics of standing, reduces the risk of falling and empowers the individual to participate as much as they can. #standaid #sarasteady #manualhandling ... See MoreSee Less
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Work related injury statistics - 2024
Working in this industry for over 15 years, I have seen the work related injury claims change over time. 15 years ago (even up to 8 years ago), musculoskeletal related injuries accounted for more injuries than anything else - particularly back and neck injuries.
Reviewing Safe Work Australia's 2024 statistics, the highest cause of work cover claims is now psychological injury. In addition to this, it is a higher percentage of women who have active claims for psychological injury, compared to men who have a higher incidence of musculoskeletal injury.
Another interesting fact is that the number of diseases from the workplace is up at 35%, compared to 65% from traumatic injuries. COVID 19 in particular accounts for an additional 8000 of worker compensation claims sin the 12 months preceding 2024. #WorkCoverInjury #workinjury #injury #adelaide ... See MoreSee Less
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Empowering individuals who require physical assistance to move their body.
As a manual handling trainer, I see more workers than not, performing the entirety of the physical task for the individual in need of assistance. In most cases, the individual can assist with the movement and better yet - it empowers them to initiate and complete something that will give them a sense of achievement / independence.
So what are some of the ways that we as healthcare workers can empower the individuals we are supporting? Here are 4 simple ways to achieve this!
✅ Work out how the person communicates. Use this method to explain the task and how they can help
✅ Position equipment in a way that enhances the success of the movement (e.g. raise the back rest on the bed half way, adjust the height of the bed)
✅ Ask consent to proceed, explain to the individual how they can initiate the movement in their own time
✅ Ask the individual to look in the direction of the movement (muscles will follow suit and assist the movement)
The training that we provide focuses heavily on empowerment of the supported individual, which gives the supported individual their power back, but it reduces the physical support that the worker is needing to provide. #manualhandling #adelaide #healthcare #empower #NDIS ... See MoreSee Less
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Manual Handling of People 👩⚕️
In the healthcare industry, one of the most physically demanding parts of the job is the manual handling of people.
Often the individuals who require physical support present with a multitude of variables, which can be challenging to navigate safely if you are inexperienced. Some of the needs that supported individuals have might include:
➡ Supporting an individual with physical impairment
➡ Supporting an individual with high or low tone
➡ Supporting an individual that may experience seizures
➡ Supporting an individual that may have trouble managing and expressing emotions, potentially presenting with combative actions
➡ Supporting individuals who are bariatric
➡ Supporting individuals with a cognitive or intellectual impairment
This is why Safe Work Practice teaches this subject around safe principles of manual handling. There is no "right way" to perform a task, because individual needs are different. By empowering workers with safe principles, they are able to make informed decisions about the safest way to support an individual in need whilst empowering them to participate. #ManualHandling #adelaide #healthcare #disability #NDIS ... See MoreSee Less
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Ergonomic Assessments..... how can they help me?
'Ergonomic' is the term used to describe a customised healthy working environment for an individual.
More often than not, ergonomic assessments occur for workers who are in a sedentary role, as the effects of sedentary work places excess pressure on the body due to the sustained force.
The "ideal" workplace would ensure that the worker:
➡ is able to remain as anatomically neutral as possible
➡ offers an efficient method or workflow
➡ enables frequent bodily position changes
➡ can be customised to suit the individual bodily requirements of different workers
Did you know that a 70kg worker who is slumped in their chair has the SAME amount of force going through their back as a worker lifting a 100kg weight! Sometimes it's not the task that poses the risk, it is the way the task is performed!
You are welcome to reach out to our team who can guide you or your workplace through some simple ergonomic strategies to maintain a healthy workforce. #ergonomics #ergonomicassessment #adelaide ... See MoreSee Less
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"WHS" and requirements of a PCBU:
Did you know that there is legislating mandating that a Person Conducting Business or Undertakings must:
✅ensure the health and safety of workers and others at your workplace
✅consult with workers who carry out work for the business or undertaking and who are (or are likely to be) directly affected by a health and safety matter, and
✅consult cooperate and coordinate activities with all other relevant duty holders.
Depending on your workplace, this legislation requires your to identify, risk assess and risk manage foreseeable risk within the workplace.
Safe Work Practice has a robust job dictionary aimed at health workers and providing them clear Safe Operating Instructions for job roles ranging from acute care to residential and community care. These can be tailored to your specific workplace should you wish to create a job dictionary for your workplace without 'reinventing the wheel'.
www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/doc/model-code-practice-hazardous-manual-tasks ... See MoreSee Less
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Scope of a physiotherapist.... this is a question we are often asked as the scope of a physiotherapist can be quite broad!
In our team, we are extremely grateful to have 7 highly experienced physiotherapists that enable our team to have a wide scope of experience.
So what can our physiotherapy team do?
✅ Manual Handling Plans
✅ Manual Handling Training
✅ Functional Capacity Assessments - for individuals with physical disabilities
✅ Equipment/ AT assessment and prescription (including complex wheelchair and sleep system scripting)
✅ Therapy - we offer land based clinic and home therapy, we offer hydrotherapy and we also have a one of a kind ceiling hoist to enable our physiotherapists with a near background to offload different weights in a hoist lifter WHILST the user is weight bearing!!! This isn't something that can be done in any ceiling hoist with any sling!
.... and many services in between! 😅 ... See MoreSee Less
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Manual Handling Plans - what are they and why are they beneficial?🙋♀️
"A 'Manual Handling Plan' is a set of instructions and descriptions that provide the wishes and the needs of a person that requires physical support to move their body".
➡ A Physiotherapist or Occupational Therapist will conduct an 'in home' manual handling assessment, looking at how the person moves and what physical support they require to complete the task.
➡ A manual handling plan will look at everything from how to move between a bed and a chair, to how the person mobilises, positioning to eat/drink (if applicable), how the person accesses the community and how they engage in tasks of interest.
✅ A great manual handling plan will always have the individual at the centre of mind and consult with them and their family/ supports to ensure that the person's wishes are directing the assessment
✅ A great manual handling plan details specific step by step instructions on how to support the individual with the task. This includes but is not limited to what equipment is required and how to use it, preferences for seated and lying postures and when and how support is needed.
✅ A great manual handling plan will have pictures (with consent) showing the steps required to support the individual
✅ The scope of the manual handling plan should always align with the manual handling training that is offered to support the individual's needs.
Our team have been teaching manual handling training and writing manual handling plans for more than 20 years. We have a solid understanding of risk management and how to work with the individual and abide by the legislative requirements to create a plan that maintains independence and choice for the individual, whilst meeting WHS requirements. ... See MoreSee Less
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Wheelchairs - boy have the choices of accessories and customisation changed in the last decade!
A wheelchair is often an individual's primary equipment to enable them to be mobile. Some individuals are needing to spend 8-12 hours in their seated equipment - meaning that not only is postural support important, but also the functionality!
So what else is available in the equipment market?
➡ Power assist devices. These attach to the existing wheelchair and enable the wheelchair user and/or their support person to electronically power a manual wheelchair. Essentially turning a manual chair to a power chair, but with the ease of folding storage for vehicle transport.
➡ Interchangeable accessories. Leg rests, calf rests, head supports, arm rests, lateral supports - many of these accessories have compatible hardware between different brands. Choosing the most appropriate accessory is where an OT or Physiotherapist can assist, as they look at how to maintain neutral posture and maximise independence with function.
➡ One arm drive capability. People who have had a brain or spinal cord injury that affects one arm often find themselves propelling with one arm and steering with one foot, often going in circles. Some manual chairs have a 'one arm drive' feature to enable the user to propel forward/ backward and turn all with one arm!
➡ We will do a seperate post on wheelchair cushions and back rests - as they are soooooo diverse, but almost all cushions and back rests are compatible with any model of wheelchair.
If you'd like to learn more, you are welcome to reach out to our team who can assist you to navigate through this process of selecting what will work right for you. ... See MoreSee Less
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The 'Life Box'! What is it and why is it important to assess for a person who has challenges maintaining a neutral posture?
➡ The 'life box' is a term used by clinicians to describe the available space between an individual's rib cage and pelvis.
➡ The 'life box' contains vital organs and as such, it is ideal to maintain a SQUARE or RECTANGULAR life box to allow the body to function as intended.
➡ When a person has an asymmetrical life box (triangular frontal plane or anterior/posterior pelvic tilt), the posture may permanently affect the functioning of these vital organs, complicating the health of the individual.
✅ Having a thorough MAT assessment (mechanical assessment tool) by a qualified practitioner can identify what unique posture an individual has and use customised postural supports to maintain this vital 'life box'.
If you or someone you know has challenges with maintaining neutral anatomical posture, you are welcome to reach out to our highly experienced team to assist with reviewing postural support strategies to maximise optimal health outcomes for the individual ... See MoreSee Less
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What is a MAT assessment?
➡ A 'MAT' assessment is an abbreviation for 'Mechanical Assessment Tool'
➡ A 'MAT assessment' is a tool used by Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists to assess your resting posture in either a seated or lying position.
✅ These assessments enable the practitioner to custom script a variety of equipment supports to match your unique functional needs and postural requirements
➡ This type of assessment might be used to script/build you a custom wheelchair
➡ This type of assessment might be used to build/script a sleep system
MAT assessments should be performed regularly when a person has challenges with maintaining a neutral body position, to make sure that equipment is adjusted to ensure comfort and to maximise functional movement - particularly for those with conditions that are progressive in nature.
✅ Our team of 6 Occupational Therapists and 7 Physiotherapists have extensive experience with MAT assessments and can work with suppliers to customise an ideal seated or lying script to meet your needs.
Feel welcome to reach out if you'd like some more information about this process and to learn more about the importance of having access to a customised postural support system to maximise your functional capacity ... See MoreSee Less
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Our team enjoyed some lovely company at our bi-yearly get together. Our team loves to participate in social events, this year we did The Handlebar followed by some wonderful food.
A shout out to our AMAZING TEAM, you are all incredible and we are so humbled to have such amazing colleagues.
Wishing everyone a very merry Christmas, thank you for all of your support in 2024.
To our valued clients, advocates, support coordinators and families, we will remain open as usual over the festive season should you require support. ❤️ ... See MoreSee Less
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Risk Assessment? What is it and what does this look like in the context of 'Hazardous Manual Tasks'?
Risk assessment is a tasks that all organisations and individuals should be doing. In fact, you would already be doing it!! Whether it be judging when to cross a busy road, or farseeing risks when parenting a toddler.... We have all had experience in identifying and assessing the risk of a task and predicting how likely an adverse outcome may be.
In the context of 'Hazardous Manual Tasks', as Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists, we may be assessing a wide variety of risks in your workplace or with a client, stemming from risks within the environment to risks with the way a client is physically supported.
All workplaces should have a system of documenting 'Risk Assessment', as part of their Risk Management Register. The scope of assessing the risk in terms of client care usually falls within the scope of practice of their Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist, Allied Health Practitioner or Registered Nurse; who may be responsible for overseeing their 'manual handling plan', 'behaviour support plan', 'healthcare plan' etc.
At Safe Work Practice, this is our bread and butter. We have a wide range of templates for the common tasks that require 'Risk Assessment' within client and corporate settings, including SOP's for various client care and industrial tasks. These templates can be tailored to the unique needs of the corporate setting or client care scenario to make it an easier process of developing such documentation.
If you wish to receive further information on how Safe Work Practice can support you, your client or your organisation, please feel welcome to reach out on 1300 661 670, by email info@safeworkpractice.com.au or through our website www.safeworkpractice.com.au
#riskassessment #hazardousmanualtasks #SOPs #riskmanagement ... See MoreSee Less
Welcome to Safe Work Practice
www.safeworkpractice.com.au
Educating the workforce to perform tasks safely.0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Manual Handling Training - what are employers obligations under WHS Regulation 39 of the Work Health and Safety Regulations 2012?
An employer in South Australia, under the WHS Health and Safety Regulations 2012, must provide evidence of education to workers that is:
- relevant for their scope of practice
- that is easily accessible
- a system to document that they have understood and can demonstrate the information provided
- and that the training is provided by a professional that is qualified to provide it.
Now more than ever, we are being contacted by organisations to support them in meeting this criteria. Whether it be for improvements in their organisation, or for support with upcoming audits or whether it be that we provide face to face training; supplemented with an optional online portal for ongoing reference to content.
Our trainers are industrial Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists who actively work within the NDIS, Aged Care and Occupational Rehabilitation settings; so not only do their know their stuff, but they put it into relatable context.
If you'd like to see how Safe Work Practice can assist your organisation to improve or maintain your current education in this area of expertise, please feel welcome to reach out to us on 1300 661 670, by email info@safeworkpractice.com.au or through our website www.safeworkpractice.com.au
#whshealthandsafteyregulations2012
#manualhandlingtraining
#facetofacetraining
#hazardousmanualtasks ... See MoreSee Less
Welcome to Safe Work Practice
www.safeworkpractice.com.au
Educating the workforce to perform tasks safely.0 CommentsComment on Facebook
With Christmas fast approaching, many providers are shutting down during the festive period.
As we understand that your needs don't 'pause' during this period of time, we would like to share that Safe Work Practice will be open as usual during the festive period, closed only on public holidays.
We also have access to Assistive Technology hire/purchase items with Homecare Equipment also being open during this period, for all of your urgent needs.
We wish everyone a safe and merry Christmas and thank you for your support in 2024. ... See MoreSee Less
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Train the Trainer: What is it and how does it empower your business to internally up skill and provide mentoring to workers 365 days of the year?
Safe Work Practice has a number of 'train the trainer' programs, that provide an intensive 1 or 2 day course to workers on safe manual handling practices in their industry.
The aim of 'train the trainer' is that the people who undergo the course, can provide mentoring to there staff in their team on this subject matter. This empowers employers, as they then have in-house mentors who can assist with new employees or where risk management is required.
#trainthetrainer #manualhandling #WorkplaceTraining #WHS ... See MoreSee Less
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'Manual Handling -related injuries' - in 2022 and 2023, in Australia there was 497, 300 work place injuries. 24% of these injuries were because of poor manual handling practices - lifting, pushing, pulling, rotating, sustaining and awkward posture.
Although workers may have been 'in the industry' for some time, safe manual handling practices evolve over time, as does the assistive equipment available to reduce manual load.
Regular and customised workplace manual handling training helps to educate and empower the workforce and help promote health and wellness.
At Safe Work Practice, we educate workers in both the health and industrial sectors across Australia. Providing customised scope of training to each workplace by experienced Senior Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists.
We also offer e-learning resources that can provide a reference for workers, to prompt them on the key points of actions they have learnt through face to face training.
#manualhandlingtraining #musculoskeletalinjury #workplaceinjury #hazardousmanualtasks #elearning ... See MoreSee Less
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Hazardous Manual Tasks. What are they and why is identification and risk management so important?
A 'Hazardous Manual Task', is defined by Safe Work Australia as as task that is:
- repetitive or sustained
- requires an awkward posture
- exposes the workers vibration
- involves restraining a person or animal
- involves an unstable or unbalanced load
It is important that workers and employers understand and identify these traits, to provide customised 'Manual Handling Training' to their staff. Employers have obligations under the various legislation in your state and the 'Hazardous Manual Tasks Code of Practice 2018'. ... See MoreSee Less
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If you are looking for something to do this Friday and Saturday, the Disability and Lifestyles expo is on from 10am to 4pm.
Our other side of our business, Equipt To Thrive will be exhibiting.
We would love you to visit us for a chat (booth 120 near the stage) and we will be showing some videos of our new Guldmann G3 gait training hoist! We boast the only one in South Australia! It can assist people who are non ambilant to stand and walk in a fully supported system.
Hope to see you there! ... See MoreSee Less
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With the challenges in todays society and the pressures that we all face, just sending out a reminder to check in with those around you and see how they are travelling ❤️ ... See MoreSee Less
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Exciting decision! Installation of a gait training hoist!
Lisa our Director visited Melbourne recently and had the pleasure of trialling the Guldmann GH3 hoist. Unlike other ceiling hoists, it SENSES when a person needs to go up/ down/ forwards/ sidewards as it is designed for walking and gait training.
Lisa was blown away and has purchased one for our neuro-gym in Mawson Lakes. We will be sending out plenty of updates, but the opportunities for the community this could create is beyond amazing! Imagine being able to have the opportunity to stand or walk on land, outside that of a hydrotherapy pool!
#neurophysiotherapy #mawsonlakes #NeuroGym #gaittraininghoist #GH3 ... See MoreSee Less
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Mental Health - It is becoming more important in these challenging times of financial pressure and especially working with/ supporting/ being an individual who has a disability.
This year we have dedicated to implementing some wellness strategies in our practice (most commencing August 2024), to try and provide more flexibility for challenging days/ to check in with ones self/ to implement some strategies on work time to declutter the mind and reset.
So far we have:
🌟 workers who roster themselves around their life, rather than the other way around
🌟 option to work from home or our office
🌟 a kitchen stocked full of goodies for our staff to enjoy (and some to share with those who come into our space)
🌟 "no questions asked" personal days that do not require a sick certificate
🌟 Senior team oversight (debriefing/ mentoring)
From August we will be introducing paid options of weekly:
💓 yoga
💓 breath work
💓 mindfulness
💓 ice baths (yes you read that correctly!)
💓 sound baths
💓 we won't give the last one away to our staff but it results in those good belly laughs!
It is so important to look after your mental wellness, watch this space for some more tips that we would love to share with you all and how our practice is supporting our staff to offset the risk of industrial burnout, compassion fatigue and sometimes just life.
NB: Some pictures are of the director Lisa learning these techniques on wellness retreats, photos shared with consent.
#Mawsonlakes #OT #Physiotherapy #mentalwellness ... See MoreSee Less
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And that's a wrap! 🎥
We have successfully finished filming some manual handling training SOP's for a corporate client on how to safely load, unload and restrain a wheelchair in an accessible vehicle, including how to use the manual over ride functions.
This space can be tricky to navigate and unfortunately we see so many people in our community restrained incorrectly. What is even more worrying, on this adventure we discovered that a roadworthy certificate is not required in SA as it is in other states to ensure the vehicle is compliant with the road safety legislation 😳 (although many get it voluntarily).
Some of the main points to remember:
✅ restraints should be as parallel as possible between the wheelchair tie down point and the vehicle floor restraint
✅ restraints should be 45 degrees from floor level once that are attached to the tie down point on the chair
✅ NEVER cross restraints
✅ Always travel in a crash tested wheelchair with it's original tie downs and travel with a head rest
✅ You are required to wear a seatbelt under the road safety laws, even if you have a lap support and/pr postural support
#mawsonlakes #manualhandlingvideos #vehicletiedowns ... See MoreSee Less
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Roadside Assistance for Wheelchairs
www.ideas.org.au/blogs/roadside-assistance.html
This is a nice little article summarising some of the initiatives across Australia to support those with powered chairs and scooters when things breakdown or go flat roadside.
In SA we are a little more limited with what RAA can provide, however there are other options and this article gives an 'easy to read' overview of how it works.
#occupationaltherapy #mawsonlakes #roadsideassistanceforwheelchairs ... See MoreSee Less
Mobility Scooter and Wheelchair Roadside Assistance
www.ideas.org.au
Roadside assistance services are available to help you should your wheelchair or motorised mobility scooter or gopher have a flat tyre or breakdown. We list some of the options available.0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Salisbury Aquatic Centre! We went to check it out this week and were quite impressed so far. Here's our feedback, but overall we give it the thumbs up 👍👍for accessibility.
Accessible change rooms are actually accessible!
✅ ceiling hoist compatible with loop slings
✅ electric height adjustable change table (downside is it appears to be inaccessible on one side which may prove challenging for those requiring more than 1:1)
✅ accessible toilet with drop down and fixed rails
✅ accessible shower with bench, handheld and pool chair that could be used as a commode
Pool Access is via:
🏊🤽♀️👩🦽
✅ (transfer with hoist to pool chair in change room) pool chair via the ramp to enter one of the two indoor pools
✅ the ramps with rails
✅ the steps with rails
The staff are still sorting out whether they loan equipment for hydrotherapy, so for now it is BYO and watch their space.
We hope this information helps your planning if you want to visit 😊 ... See MoreSee Less
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