16 September 2026 · MHRA
MHRA issues safety alert on patient hoist maintenance
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency has issued a National Patient Safety Alert detailing practical steps to reduce the risk of avoidable harm associated with patient hoists. The alert focuses on improving safety through enhanced routine checks and regular maintenance of lifting equipment used across healthcare and domestic settings.
Patient hoists play a vital role in transferring individuals with restricted mobility, but equipment failure or inadequate upkeep can lead to severe injury. The regulator has instructed organisations to review their operational procedures, emphasising the need for consistent maintenance schedules, thorough pre-use inspections, and adherence to manufacturer instructions and safety standards.
The MHRA notes that robust clinical governance and structured risk management processes are essential to prevent incidents. Care providers, equipment managers and healthcare professionals are expected to ensure that all relevant personnel are properly trained, aware of the safety alert, and executing the necessary maintenance checks before equipment is put into service.
For UK online pharmacies and digital health brands that supply medical devices or support community care pathways, this alert highlights the need to verify that all equipment distribution, servicing arrangements and partner care protocols meet current safety directives where applicable.