🧑‍⚕️ Behind the Care – How We Train Our Team for Safety and Support

Published on May 9, 2025 | Updated on May 10, 2025

At OpenHearted Support, the safety of our participants and the confidence of our staff are at the heart of everything we do. One of the key ways we ensure this is through comprehensive manual handling and safety training delivered directly by our experienced Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists. Whether our staff are supporting someone with mobility needs, assisting with transfers, or helping a resident during personal care – safe handling practices are vital. Not only do they protect participants from injury, but they also empower staff to feel confident and competent while delivering care.

🧑‍⚕️ Why Manual Handling Training Is Essential

Manual handling refers to activities like lifting, pushing, pulling, transferring, and repositioning someone safely. Without proper technique and awareness, these tasks can lead to injury – for both the participant and the support worker.

Here’s how OpenHearted Support takes a proactive approach to staff safety:

✅ Reducing the risk of workplace injuries

✅ Improving care quality and client comfort

✅ Promoting dignity and independence in participants

✅ Ensuring NDIS compliance and best practice standards

How Our OTs and Physios Train Staff

Our in-house clinical team of Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists deliver hands-on training that is practical, engaging, and tailored to real-life client scenarios.

Training Modules Include:

🦴 Safe Transfer Techniques – How to assist participants when moving from bed to chair, wheelchair to toilet, or standing from seated positions using hoists, slide sheets, and mobility aids.

🛏️ Using Assistive Equipment – Proper use of mobility devices like walkers, standing hoists, commodes, and mechanical lifters to prevent strain or injury.

🧠 Body Mechanics & Ergonomics – Teaching staff how to protect their own spine and muscles while assisting clients in any physical task.

📋 Participant-Specific Plans – Custom strategies for each participant based on their physical needs, mobility level, and therapy goals.

🛑 Emergency Response & Incident Prevention – Identifying risks before they become hazards and responding appropriately if an issue arises.

Ongoing Support and Refreshers

Training is not a one-time event at OpenHearted Support. We conduct:

Regular refresher sessions

Real-time coaching during shifts

1-on-1 mentoring for new staff

Updates when client needs or equipment change

🤝 Quality Care Begins With Confident Staff

Our approach is simple – well-trained staff = safer, happier clients.

That’s why OpenHearted Support goes the extra mile to ensure every team member is trained not just in theory but in practical, client-specific manual handling skills that promote dignity, independence, and well-being.

📞 Want to Learn More?

Whether you’re a family member, support coordinator, or participant looking for a provider that takes safety seriously – we’re here to support you every step of the way.

📧 Email – admin@ohsupport.com.au

📞 Call – 1800 976 186

🌐 Visit – www.openheartedsupport.com.au

OpenHearted Support – Where clinical care meets compassionate support.

Empowering lives with safety, skill, and heart.