Fittings


hoists have become a standard expectation in new-build care homes, replacing the mobile hoists that once cluttered corridors and demanded physical exertion from staff. Modern systems use continuous tracks


that can cover an entire room (via H-frame layouts) or travel between spaces using connecting gates and turntables. There are configurations that link bedrooms to en suite bathrooms seamlessly, allowing a resident to be transferred safely from bed to bath in one smooth motion. These installations typically support


loads of 200 kilograms or more and can accommodate powered traverse options to minimise carer effort. They operate quietly, charge automatically while docked, and integrate safety features such as emergency lowering and overload protection. In practice, this technology reduces


manual handling injuries, saves time during care routines, and supports a higher standard of dignity. It allows carers to focus on engagement and reassurance rather than physical strain a fundamental shift in how care is delivered.


Designing for flow and function Integrating ceiling hoists and assisted baths into a new build is both an art and a science. It begins long before foundations are laid. Successful projects start with a detailed consultation phase where design teams assess


the level of care required and identify resident mobility profiles and operational workflows. This informs decisions about which rooms need full hoist coverage, which can be future- proofed for later installation, and how en suites are positioned relative to bedrooms. Spatially, flow matters as much as


structure. Doorways must be wide enough for both hoist travel and carer access, while bathroom layouts must avoid obstructions around the bath or toilet. Carer working space – which is often overlooked – is essential for safety and comfort.


Bathing spaces that heal Beyond function and compliance, the emotional dimension of bathing spaces cannot be overstated. For many residents, particularly those living with dementia, sensory experiences shape wellbeing. Warm water, gentle light, and familiar surroundings can soothe agitation and promote calm. Designers now use this understanding to


craft bathrooms that engage the senses while maintaining safety. Softly diffused LED lighting and acoustic treatment contribute to comfort. Contrasting colours help residents with visual impairments to distinguish fixtures, while thermostatic controls protect against scalding. These details transform a purely practical environment into a place of reassurance.


When residents feel safe and cared for, the psychological impact is significant, promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety, and enhancing overall quality of life.


Building it right from the ground up In new build projects, the ceiling structure is one of the most important considerations. Load-bearing capacity must meet the requirements of the hoist system, typically supporting at least 200 kg. Structural engineers design concealed steelwork or joist reinforcement to take this load safely. The installation process in modern care


homes follows a predictable but carefully managed sequence. Once the structural fixings are in place, track systems are mounted flush with the ceiling, aligned to the pre-planned route between bed and bathroom. Precision here matters even a few millimetres of misalignment can affect smooth transfer or cause operational strain on the system. Following installation, thorough testing


and commissioning ensure reliability and compliance with the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER). Each hoist undergoes load testing, functional checks, and safety certification before handover. What distinguishes well-executed new


builds from retrofits is integration. The ceiling appears uncluttered, with tracks blending into coving lines or recessed details. Lighting is coordinated to avoid glare or interference, and ceiling finishes remain consistent throughout. From a resident’s perspective, the result is subtle – a clean, domestic space with invisible capability.


Training and maintenance: the hidden essentials Even the best-designed systems require care and maintenance to remain safe and effective. In the UK, all lifting equipment in care environments must undergo regular inspection and servicing under LOLER. For operators, this means establishing a clear maintenance schedule and ensuring staff are trained not just in use, but in daily checks and troubleshooting. Training is an often-underestimated


aspect of successful implementation. Staff must understand correct sling selection, positioning, charging, and emergency procedures. In new-build projects, training is ideally provided as part of the commissioning phase, ensuring teams are confident before residents move in.


April 2026 www.thecarehomeenvironment.com 37


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44  |  Page 45  |  Page 46  |  Page 47