Education Services

ARHA Education Services Program
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Lifts and Transfers: Guidelines & Assessment for Safe Client Handling

To ensure appropriate, consistent and safe client handling all direct care providers will adhere to the program’s policy and procedures. The Occupational Health and Safety Officer in conjunction with an Educator from the Education Services Team are responsible for the training of all ARHA staff, with input from the ARHA Ergonomics Committee. Lifts and Transfers Representatives are trained in each facility to assist staff with each of the different types of client transfers and to be a resource for staff in relation to their own body mechanics at work and all transfers. The Lifts and Transfers Representatives also help facilitate the practical group training for all direct care providers.

All direct care providers are required to attend a one day in-service on Safe Client Handling. All new staff are to attend one of the sessions offered following regional orientation. Regular staff will attend any of these sessions as required. After attending the initial in-service, Lifts and Transfers Representatives will reassess each individual staff member’s skills every two years.

The one day in-service is an interactive day that starts with a brief power point presentation on principles of body mechanics and general guidelines for transferring clients. Staff is introduced to some basic stretch and strengthening exercises which they are asked to continue doing at each and every shift they work. Following this exercise, staff are shown all of the different types of client transfers while playing the role of client staff and observer. Throughout the day, staff are given helpful tips on how each transfer is done safely and correctly while being reminded of their body mechanics and the safety aspects of each piece of equipment that is required. Staff will be made aware that mechanical lifts, approved sliders, transfer belt and other transfer aids shall be used to prevent manual lifting of clients.