Toileting Sling Safety Tips to Prevent Falls and Accidents

Updated June 2025

When transferring or toileting a person with limited mobility, safety must always come first. In this guide, we provide toileting sling safety tips you can apply right away. These steps, combined with the right equipment and training, help prevent accidents and falls during transfers.

Why Toileting Sling Safety Tips Matter

First, let’s understand why focusing on toileting sling safety tips is critical:

• Reduced incident risk: Falls and mishandling are among the leading causes of injuries in care settings.
• Enhanced comfort: Proper sling use prevents pressure injuries and discomfort.
• Improved confidence: With safety tips in mind, carers feel more at ease during transfers.

By consistently using this advice, you protect both the carer and the person being transferred.

1. Choose the Right Sling for Each Person

It all starts with selecting the correct sling. Not every sling suits every individual. Follow these toileting sling safety tips to make the right choice:

• Match the sling to the person’s needs – weight, mobility, toileting requirements, and body shape.
• Choose high-quality materials – breathable, durable, and washable.
• Check for certification – look for slings that meet relevant standards.

For a trusted selection of toileting slings, browse products like those available from Able Cleaning & Hygiene. They provide a range tailored to different needs.

2. Inspect Equipment Before Every Use

Next, these toileting sling safety tips emphasize routine checks:

• Visual inspections – look for tears, loose stitching, faded labels, or fraying straps.
• Hardware checks – test clips, buckles, and metal rings for wear, deformation, or rust.
• Label clarity – ensure weight limits and instructions are still legible.

If you have doubts, don’t take chances. You can contact a specialist like Able Equipment for LOLER servicing and inspections to ensure your lifting kit is fit for purpose.

3. Confirm Correct Sling Size and Fit

Even the best sling fails if it doesn’t fit properly. These toileting sling safety tips will guide you:

• Follow sizing charts – each sling type will include detailed weight and body measurements.
• Reassess as the person’s condition changes – weight gain or shrinkage can affect fit.
• Perform a ‘fit’ test – conduct a trial before the first toileting session to check comfort and secure placement.

Proper fit boosts both safety and dignity for the person being transferred.

4. Prepare the Environment Thoroughly

Safety isn’t just about the sling—it’s also about the setting.

• Clear the space – remove any obstacles such as wet floors, rugs, bags, or equipment cables.
• Position the mobility aid – ensure the toilet or commode is placed for easy access and stability.
• Set height appropriately – the aid should be at a height that avoids awkward bending or leaning.

These toileting sling safety tips help reduce slips, trips, and collisions during transfers.

5. Apply the Sling Correctly

One of the most crucial of all toileting sling safety tips is learning proper application:

1. Explain the process – talk the person through each step to help them relax.
2. Use two carers for heavier or less mobile individuals – overloading one person can lead to mishandling.
3. Align straps evenly – straps should not twist or tangle.
4. Double-check strap connections – make sure each clasp is fully secured and positioned symmetrically.

Mistakes during this step can lead to serious risks, so don’t rush it!

6. Perform Smooth, Controlled Transfers

The actual transfer is where safety is put to the test. Keep these toileting sling safety tips in mind:

• Communicate during the lift – count aloud: “1...2...3...lift.”
• Lift with your legs, not your back – maintain a straight spine.
• Keep the person close – reduce strain and prevent tipping.
• Pause between movements – never rush from lifting to seating.
• Monitor comfort – check posture, breathing, and expressions as you go.

Controlled, deliberate movements lower the risk of slips or jolts.

7. Ensure Safe Transfer Back

After toileting, the reverse transfer needs the same care:

• Support the person’s feet – ensure they are on the base or floor before unhooking straps.
• Release straps slowly – do not withdraw sling until fully seated.
• Step away carefully – before detaching equipment, ensure the user is safe and balanced.

Rushing this step can result in sudden drops or instability, so follow your cola seco: “Hook, lift, seat, support, release.”

8. Clean and Store the Sling Properly

Proper aftercare plays a big role in ensuring future safety:

• Wash the sling as per manufacturer guidelines – typically at 60–90 °C in a hygiene-approved washer.
• Air-dry thoroughly – never use high heat dryers which can degrade materials.
• Store in a cool, dry place – avoid damp basements or direct sunlight.

These toileting sling safety tips help maintain sling integrity, preventing early wear or mould growth.

9. Train Staff and Schedule Regular Refresher Sessions

Consistent training is key to maintaining safe practices:

• Provide formal training – include hands-on demonstrations for safe sling use.
• Schedule quarterly updates – refocus on toileting sling safety tips and proper method.
• Encourage peer observation – carers can offer each other helpful feedback.

Knowledge and confidence grow together. Well-trained staff reduce incident rates significantly.

10. Regularly Audit Your Sling Use Protocols

Finally, keep safety front and centre with regular reviews:

• Conduct monthly audits – check sling condition, staff adherence, and incident logs.
• Sollicitation feedback – talk to carers about challenges and observations.
• Update procedures – revise best practices following new product launches or regulations.

In addition to audits, don’t hesitate to reach out for expert advice. If you need technical guidance or professional servicing, learn more or get in touch via this Able contact form.

Wrapping Up All Toileting Sling Safety Tips

To recap, here are the essential toileting sling safety tips you should apply every day:

1. Select the right sling.
2. Inspect equipment before each use.
3. Verify correct size and fit.
4. Prepare the environment rigorously.
5. Apply the sling with care.
6. Transfer smoothly and safely.
7. Support the return transfer.
8. Clean and store slings properly.
9. Train staff consistently.
10. Audits and continuous improvement.

Following these toileting sling safety tips won’t just keep your service compliant—it also ensures the dignity, comfort, and security of the individual being cared for.

Extra Resources

• Explore a wide range of slings at Able Cleaning & Hygiene.
• Keep your lifting equipment certified with Able’s LOLER testing and servicing.
• Need expert advice? Reach out using this contact form.
• Want to know more, check out this article on sling inspections.

By focusing on these tips and using the right gear, you’ll foster safer toileting routines—supporting carers and care recipients alike.