The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) issued a National Patient Safety Alert on 16 September 2026 on the safe use of patient hoists and slings across health and social care settings. The agency said a review of recent safety data showed serious incidents can occur when the equipment is not used, checked or maintained properly. The incidents were not linked to any single manufacturer or model and were reported in hospitals, care homes and people's own homes.

The alert sets out steps including thorough pre-use checks before every transfer, confirming the hoist and sling are compatible, checking attachments are secure before lifting, keeping maintenance records and ensuring equipment is inspected and serviced, and keeping staff training and competency assessments up to date. MHRA Chief Safety Officer Dr Alison Cave said the consequences of incorrect use or poor maintenance can be devastating, and urged providers, carers and users to follow the guidance.

The MHRA said the alert reinforces and updates national guidance issued in 2014 and 2015, after continued reports of serious incidents with similar contributing factors, including equipment failure at critical attachment points, incompatible components and inadequate checks and training. It said it is working with NHS organisations, regulators and professional bodies on implementation, and encouraged problems with devices to be reported through its Yellow Card scheme.