Keeping Manual Handlers Out Of Hospital

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The Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Trust has invested in seven pedestrian operated electric tugs to improve porter efficiency and reduce manual handling accidents that lead to hospital visits.

The equipment is manufactured and supplied by electric tug specialist MasterMover and will be used to transport logistics cages in the loading and store areas.

The tugs, which are part of MasterMover’s SmartMover range, allow a single member of staff to move loads of up to 1,200kg. This is achieved through a combination of a hydraulic coupling point, which creates an unbreakable connection to the load, and a leveraged weight-transfer system complemented by two drive motors.

MasterMover’s electric tugs are designed to minimise the need for manual handling, which improves the efficiency of handling processes while also reducing the risk of injury.

Reducing handling injuries is a key driver for NHS Trusts across the UK. According to the North West Workforce Streamlining Programme (NWWSP), who provides moving and handling training for NHS Trusts in northwest England, there are approximately 5,000 handling injuries in healthcare services each year. This costs the NHS £1 billion each year in litigation.

Andy Owen managing director of MasterMover said: “By improving efficiency, healthcare facility managers can minimise the costs associated with handling tasks. This goes beyond the litigation costs saved by reducing the number of injuries, as it frees up more staff time to complete more valuable tasks.”

Picture: An NHS trust's investment in handling equipment has improved efficiency and safety 

Article written by Brian Shillibeer

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