Hoists

Hoists provide a safe, straightforward way to transfer somebody with limited mobility without putting unnecessary strain on the carer or the person being moved.

Our range of hoist systems provides versatile solutions. These cater to a huge range of different room sizes and individual requirements. Whether you require full room coverage with a ceiling hoist system or a portable hoist to accommodate a wider range of needs, we’re confident. We can deliver a transfer system that works for you.

Enhancing Mobility and Comfort

Hoists provide a mechanical means by which a less able person can be moved or transferred. They facilitate movement from one place or position to another. This could be in and out of a bed, across a room or into a car.

When the act of moving puts too much strain on your carer or on yourself, you may require a hoist. Such situations pose a risk of harm. Additionally, if you are exploring hoists as a way to live more comfortably, it’s important to understand the benefits and uses of each one.

Ceiling Hoists

Ceiling track hoists ensure a safe, quick way of transfer. This type of hoists run along permanently fixed tracks or rails, so they do not occupy floor space the way a mobile hoist does. Notably, users may operate ceiling-mounted hoist systems independently. This is often impossible with floor-standing systems.

Ceiling hoists suit a variety of care settings. These settings encompass hospitals, care homes, and private residences. You can install them in multiple rooms or areas to provide comprehensive coverage throughout a property.

Gantry Hoists

A gantry rail hoist (aka overhead hoist) offers a more portable alternative to a ceiling track hoist. These work by supporting the track from a free-standing frame rather than attaching it to the ceiling. This feature allows for easy installation and removal, making them perfect for use in temporary or multiple locations.

Physiotherapy clinics or schools often use these when a more versatile transfer system is needed. You can also use them at home when travelling or visiting friends and family. These can come with different span widths from 2-5 meters. Our team of specialists can ensure to match the right hoist solution to your particular needs.

Mobile Hoists

The most common type of hoist is the mobile hoist, which you can use in a variety of complex or basic situations, such as in the house or for getting in and out of a car. Mobile hoists, being self-contained units, don’t require any track installation, offering maximum flexibility at an affordable price point. What’s more, this kind is easily transportable, making it ideal for day trips and holidays.

We offer our range of mobile hoists with the user’s comfort, safety, and convenience in mind. We offer a variety of models to choose from depending on your building and specific needs. These considerations include lifting capacity and manoeuvrability. Our team can also provide training and guidance on how to correctly and safely use these hoists.

FAQs

We’ve successfully designed and delivered hoists to hundreds of users, carers and medical professionals across the country. Find the most common questions from our customers below:

What Are Hoists Used For?

Hoists are primarily used to assist those with limited mobility, such as the elderly or disabled, in moving from one position or location to another. This could include transitions such as from a wheelchair to a bed, from a seated position to a standing one, or from a bed to a car. They are designed to make these movements safer and more comfortable, both for the individual and for caregivers. Furthermore, hoists can help reduce the risk of injuries associated with manual lifting and handling.

How Do Hoists Work?

Hoists operate on simple mechanical principles to lighten the load of lifting. They make use of a sling that goes around the person, and then a motor lifts the sling up, effectively raising the person.

The mechanical advantage depends on the type of hoist being used. For instance, ceiling and gantry hoists run along tracks, and can smoothly move the person across a room, while mobile hoists utilise a hydraulic system or an electronic motor to lift and lower the person, and can be manually moved around on their included castors (wheels).

The controls are easy to install and operate and often come with a handheld remote, giving users or carers the ability to control the hoist’s movement.

Which Type of Hoist Is Right for Me?

The type of hoist that will be suitable for you largely depends on your mobility requirements, the frequency of use, and the environment you’ll be using the hoist in. A single rail or ceiling hoist may be the best option if you require frequent transfers, while a gantry hoist might be more suitable for less frequent use or temporary setups.

Mobile hoists, on the other hand, are incredibly versatile and ideal for situations that require a portable solution. We recommend that you consult with a healthcare professional or a mobility equipment specialist to help you determine the best hoist to suit your particular needs.

Who Are Hoists Designed For?

Hoists are designed for individuals who have mobility limitations due to illness, injury, or disability. They are particularly beneficial for those who find it difficult or impossible to move independently. Hoists can also be an essential aid for caregivers, reducing the physical strain and risk of injury when assisting with transfers.

Care homes, hospitals, and rehabilitation centres often use hoists for support and to ensure the safe and comfortable movement of residents or patients. Finally, hoists can also be utilised by people recovering from surgery or those undergoing physiotherapy, as they can aid in gentle and controlled movement during the recovery and rehabilitation process.

How Safe Are Hoists?

Hoists are typically designed with a variety of safety features to ensure the secure handling of users. These include emergency stop controls, manual lowering systems, and safety harnesses. In addition, most hoists have a built-in overload protection feature to prevent overhead hoists from lifting beyond their maximum weight capacity.

To ensure safety, it is crucial that hoists are used correctly and maintained regularly. Before using a hoist, the user or carer should receive appropriate training – the EA Mobility team can provide this. Regular inspections and servicing by a qualified professional will also help to keep the hoist in safe working condition.

How Much Do Hoists Cost?

The cost of hoists can vary significantly depending on their type, features, and brand. Generally, mobile hoists are the most affordable, with prices starting from around £500 for basic models. Gantry hoists are a bit more expensive due to their larger size and portability features, with prices typically starting from about £1000. Ceiling track hoists are usually the most expensive, with prices starting from around £2000, due to the addition of installation costs and customisation of the track system.

Remember, it’s vital to consider the long-term value, quality, and safety features when choosing a hoist, not just the initial purchase price. Our team at EA Mobility are always on hand to provide advice and assistance to help you select the best hoist within your budget.