As of 2022, over 400,000 people lived in care homes throughout the UK. With the continuing demand for exceptional care facilities, it comes as no surprise that the sector is under more pressure than ever to meet the standards set out by regulators.
As the country faces higher costs of living and tighter budgets, some care home owners may begin to question the necessity of regular maintenance checks on equipment. However, when using specialist equipment in healthcare spaces, care providers must stay in line with all regulations, including Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) and Care Quality Commission (CQC) guidelines.
Why Are Servicing and Maintenance Important in Care Homes?
From keeping residents safe to lowering the cost of maintenance, regular servicing of care home equipment creates a better experience for everyone involved. Properly maintained manual handling equipment will have an extended lifespan and boosted reliability - because let's face it, no one wants to see equipment discarded because it wasn't looked after correctly.
Another benefit of servicing your care equipment is the reduced upkeep cost. By spending small amounts of money now and again on maintenance, care homes can save extra cash in the long run rather than digging into the savings pot for replacement equipment.
How Can I Effectively Service My Care Home?
Two of the most significant regulations for care homes are LOLER and CQC, both working to protect staff and residents against injuries and fatalities caused by faulty equipment and practices.
Each year, various accidents and injuries occur within the health and social care sector due to incorrectly maintained equipment. Yet, by simply following regulations and actively servicing care home equipment, accidents can be prevented.
Keep Safe With LOLER and CQC
LOLER works to ensure that all lifting equipment used in the workplace is fit for purpose and subject to ‘thorough examination’. Care homes should keep up-to-date records of all examinations and any defects found.
By keeping track of the age, model, number of repairs and any recommended improvements needed to each piece of equipment, care homes are in a much better position to manage their maintenance - let us know if you need help taking control of your LOLER.
Much like LOLER, CQC help to regulate health and social care services throughout the UK and provide people with safe, effective and quality care. By monitoring and inspecting services, the Care Quality Commission help to protect care organisations from reputational risks while increasing patient safety.
When Should I Service My Care Home Equipment?
CQC inspections occur every five years, but complying with the LOLER Approved Code of Practice is an ongoing and more frequent responsibility.
To verify that all lifting equipment is safe for use, meticulous examinations should be carried out throughout the equipment’s lifetime. This includes before the equipment is used for the first time, before use at each location and regularly while in service.
Unless there’s an ‘examination scheme’, lifting equipment and accessory inspections should be conducted every six months.
Take Control of Your Care Homes Safety
We understand that equipment maintenance and servicing can be a significant investment of both time and money. However, it's essential to recognise the potential risks that staff and residents may face when equipment is not adequately maintained.
With the right guidance and routine processes, this vital aspect of care home management can be made simple, hassle-free and cost-effective. Want to learn more about how we can help ensure your care home's safety?
Chat with a member of our team today!
