Ergonomics and Safe Transfers

Caregiving can include aid in transfers from a variety of surfaces, depending on the level of function of the person with injury.

No matter what surface the transfers are coming from, it is crucial for caregivers to protect their own body and spine while transferring through good body mechanics and ergonomics.

Some common tools utilized through safe transfers include:

  • Gait Belt

  • Transfer Board

  • Grab Bars

  • Durable Medical Equipment

  • Patient Lift Assist

    Consult your healthcare providers for further information if any of these items would be a good fit for you.

Priority during transfers:

  1. Safety of the person being transferred.

  2. Safety of the person providing assistance with the transfer (Dirette & Gutman, 2019).

Tips when transferring:

  • Check the stability of the surface transferring to and from. 

    • Lock all breaks of the wheelchair prior to transfer.

  • Remove any barriers to transfer such as items or armrest. 

  • Ensure feet are positioned appropriately at an angle for safe transfer.

  • Allow the person being transferred to help as much as possible.

  • Protect your spine with transfer by engaging the core and using your legs to lift.

    • Refrain from twisting the spine during transfer.

  • Communicate with each other before and throughout transfer to ensure maintaining safety for both involved.

Protecting your own body will aid in increasing the longevity of providing assistance with safe transfer.