Questions to Ask Vendors about Ceiling Mounted Lifts - Bariatric

Product Functionality and Options

1. Is a ceiling lift appropriate for our needs, or should we consider other types of lifts (mobile sling lifts, sit-to-stand lifts, wall mounted lifts, etc.)? How does a ceiling lift provide lifting and transferring assistance in a variety of situations and areas?



2. What types of ceilings lifts do you offer (dedicated hoists vs. portable hoists)? What are the advantages and disadvantages of each?



3. What types of track systems are available (single track, X-Y traverse, semi-permanent)? What are the advantages and disadvantages of each?



4. How does the transferring task (e.g., bed to chair, bed to shower, toileting, dressing, or gait training) and the need to reach certain areas of the room or traverse multiple rooms play a role in the type of track system and hoist chosen?



5. How does the environment play a role in the type of lift chosen? What options are available to reduce the amount of architectural modifications during installation of the lifting system? What options are available to meet lifting needs in multiple rooms?



6. Does your lift system offer a motorized traverse option? How does this option combined with a handheld controller enable some individuals to transfer themselves?



7. How does the cognitive status of the resident, the ability of the resident to support him/herself in a sitting position, and the upper extremity mobility of the resident play a role in the type of lift, sling bar, and sling chosen?



8. What is the total weight capacity of your lift products?



9. What sling options are offered?



10. What safety features are offered on your lift products?



11. How is the battery charged? Is the lift continuously charged across the track or does it offer a “return to charger” function? Is the “return to charger” function automatic or manually initiated via the control panel? How many lifts can be performed between charges? Can the battery be overcharged? How is battery status communicated to the care provider and does the system provide a low battery warning?



12. What other optional features are offered for your lift products? How do these options increase care efficiency, safety, continuity of care, and the comfort of the resident?



13. What are the maintenance and cleaning demands required by your lifting products?



14. Do you have any statistics on the reliability of your lift products?

1. What services do you provide to design a lift system that is appropriate for our lifting needs and environment?



2. What are your processes for providing technical support if needed? Can you provide this information in writing?



3. Do you offer a care and maintenance package? If so, what is covered and what are the costs?



4. What are your policies and procedures for providing caregiver training on proper use of the lift and resident handling? Do you offer a resident handling and lifting program?



5. What are the specifics of your warranty coverage?

1. How many clients does your company have?



2. Can you provide references for your lift systems and maintenance services?



3. What are your plans for product development? What are the potential costs of lift upgrades in the future?



4. Do you offer package deals on the purchase of multiple lifts?



5. How long has the company been in the business of providing lifting devices?



6. Have your products had any recalls in recent years?



7. What experience have you had with regulatory agencies? (e.g., U. S. Food and Drug Administration, U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Department of Health)

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