The alert follows a review of recent safety data showing serious incidents can occur when patient hoists are not used, checked or maintained properly.

 Dr Alison Cave, MHRA chief safety officer, said: ‘Our alert sets out clear actions to help prevent avoidable harm. We are urging healthcare providers, carers and anyone using a hoist to follow this guidance carefully and ensure equipment is safe before every use.'

Steps to minimise risks include:

• following extensive pre-use checks before every transfer 
• making sure the hoist and sling are compatible and using the correct equipment for each patient 
• confirming all attachments are secure before lifting 
• keeping maintenance records and ensuring equipment is regularly inspected, serviced and is compliant with regulations 
• ensuring all staff and caregivers are up to date with training and competency assessments. 

Anyone who experiences a problem with a medical device, including patient hoists or slings, should report it directly to the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.