When providing support to people with disabilities, safety isn’t just a requirement – it’s a necessity. That’s why manual handling practices are such a critical part of any NDIS provider’s operations.
Manual handling in the disability support sector isn’t just about lifting and transferring – it’s about ensuring both staff and patients are protected from the risks involved. To achieve this involves planning, training, using the right equipment, and understanding each individual patient’s needs.
For NDIS providers, these safe work practices must align with the OHS Act, as well as specific manual handling regulations and codes of practice.
At Backsafe, we work closer with NDIS providers to ensure their staff are well equipped with the training, tools and knowledge required to deliver care that is both safe and respectful.
In this blog, we’ll explore best practices, legal responsibilities, and how manual handling training can make all the difference.
Best Practices for Safe Manual Handling in NDIS Services
It is crucial that all NDIS providers are held to high standards when it comes to safety. The goal is not just to just avoid injuries, but to deliver support services that uphold the dignity and comfort of patients.
To do this effectively, providers must implement safe manual handling procedures supported by thorough risk assessments, regular training, and the correct use of assistive equipment. Below are some best practices every NDIS provider should follow:
- Prioritise person-centred support by taking into account individual needs, preferences, and comfort with each patient.
- Train staff regularly to ensure support workers understand how to move and handle patients safely and efficiently.
- Use of assistive technologies such as hoists, slings, adjustable beds, transfer boards, slide sheets, and wheelchairs not only reduces strain on staff but also improves safety and comfort for the patient.
- Plan every move to make sure your manual handling isn’t rushed. Support workers should assess the environment, identify potential hazards, and plan their moves before beginning the lift to avoid injuries.
Key Requirements for NDIS Workers
NDIS providers must meet specific legal and practical requirements to remain compliant and uphold safe working conditions. Here’s what’s involved:
Risk Assessments
Regular assessments of the physical environment, specific manual handling tasks and individual client needs are all essential. These assessments help identify potential hazards and allow providers to implement effective control measures.
Face-to-Face and Online Training
Ensure all staff have access to ongoing, up-to-date and tailored manual handling training to develop and polish their skills. Training should be practical, scenario-based, and tailored to the unique challenges faced in disability care. A well-trained workplace will immediately reduce the risk of injuries to themselves and those whom they support.
Use of Assistive Technologies
Utilise assistive equipment like hoists, slings, adjustable beds, wheelchairs, transfer boards and slide sheets to minimise physical strain and maximise client safety and comfort.
Equipment Maintenance
Regular inspections and maintenance of assistive equipment is vital to ensure all technology is functioning properly and meets manufacturers and safety regulations. Faulty or poorly maintained equipment can pose significant risks to both carers and patients.
NDIS Practice Standards
NDIS providers must meet specific NDIS standards, including:
- Standard 1: Rights and Responsibilities – Support must be person-centred, uphold participant privacy and dignity, and reflect best care practices.
- Standard 2: Provider Governance, Risk Management and Human Resources – Providers must manage manual handling risks proactively, with a goal of working towards zero harm, and ensure any injuries are handled according to WorkSafe guidelines.
- Standards 3 & 4: Provision of Supports and Environment – This includes ensuring appropriate equipment is in place and that staff are equipped with the skills and knowledge to use them effectively.
Manual Handling Principles
While equipment and training are essential, the basics of manual handling technique should never be overlooked. These include:
- Planning the Task – Warm up before beginning, clear the environment, and know the steps involved before starting a transfer.
- Body Positioning – Stay within the Backsafe Safety Zone. Avoid using your spinal column as a lever, maintain an erect spine, not bending forward or to the side greater than 20 degrees. Also be sure not to twist or bend backwards.
- Pick-Up Techniques – Avoid lifting people or items manually, use equipment instead. When lifting objects, use proper techniques such as the squat lift or golfer’s lift for lighter items.
- Set down or Place – Keep your path clear and place items down with the same care and technique used to lift them.
Conclusion
Delivering safe and effective support to people with disabilities requires systems, training and equipment that work together to protect both staff and patients.
For NDIS providers, compliance with manual handling regulations and the NDIS Practice Standards are non-negotiable.
At Backsafe, we help providers meet and exceed these standards through tailored training and expert guidance.
If you’re an NDIS provider looking to upskill your team or review your current manual handling procedures, contact us today.
Let’s build you a safer, stronger and more compliant workplace.
