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FAQs

  • What is the correct sling for my hoist?
  • How do I correctly wash my sling?
    • Follow guidelines on the sling label & care advice within the Instructions of Use
  • Why does the fabric fade?
    • Strong biological or non-biological detergents will have bleaching/whitening agents which will cause fading
    • Always use a good quality non-biological washing detergent
    • Fading will occur if the sling is laundered incorrectly
    • High exposure to drying temperatures will also cause accelerated wear
    • Chemicals within a swimming pool/hydro pool can cause fading. The product should be appropriately washed after each use
  • How long does a sling last?
    • This will depend on how well the sling is looked after and how often it is used
    • Always follow the laundering and care guide given for the sling
  • My patient is falling through the sling aperture
    • Check the size is correct
    • Check style is suitable
    • Check the sling has been applied correctly
    • Check legs sections are not too long
    • Check correct tapes have been applied
    • If the patient is still slipping, do not use it and arrange a re-assessment with a qualified healthcare professional
  • My product label has faded
    • It is a legal requirement that all lifting equipment must be visibly marked with appropriate information i.e. SWL/size etc
    • If the safety information is not legible the sling should be withdrawn from use
  • How often should I inspect a sling?
    • Visually check the sling before each use, paying attention to all lifting straps and ensuring that the sling label is clearly legible
    • Follow LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998) guidelines if operating within the UK. For rest of the world, please refer to operational regulations within your designated jurisdiction
    • Refer to the Instructions of Use
  • How do I know what size of sling to order?
    • Determine what style of sling is most appropriate for the patient
    • Locate the sling on the website and check Sizing Guide
    • A Silvalea E-Assessment can be carried out to assist with custom sizing or tailor made slings
  • Can I have sling pockets for my ‘All Day / In-Situ’ Sling?
    • An alternative would be look at the Silva Safety Slot® tapes that are more streamline than loops and will easily fold
    • Sling pockets are discouraged as once the sling tape is enclosed there is considerable bulk and potential for pressure
  • Can I have detachable tapes on my ‘All Day / In-Situ’ sling?
    • Detachable tapes will be considered on a tailor-made product but must be specifically requested following a risk assessment & disclaimer
    • NO. Detachable tapes are no longer available on standard In-situ sling
  • Can I have an ‘All Day / In-Situ’ toilet sling?
    • No, a toilet sling is structured, has padding throughout and stiffeners that will be too bulky to remain in place for extended periods
    • If the patient has enough core strength to cope with a toileting sling, a sling can easily be removed
  • I need an ‘All Day / In-Situ’ Sling
    • Only careful consideration by a qualified healthcare professional will decide whether to leave the sling under the person for extended periods while they remain sitting in a chair or on a bed
    • A proper care plan must be established based on clinical best practices. A full risk assessment must include regular inspection of pressure points and repositioning
    • Consideration must be given if the patient is using a pressure care product and what impact a sling would have on its properties
    • NO sling should remain under a patient all day
    • A sling DOES NOT have pressure relieving properties

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