Posted By STEVE John most equipment when first bought is legally compliant, safe and fit for use, however items do age, wear,become unsafe, so why is it unreasonable to ask a carer to ensure that the equipment they use before using it is fit for the purpose. Is this not what we are doing no matter what Industry when we ask our people to take time out before starting the job to ensure it is safe to proceed Steve

Posted By jackw. Hi, I think the use of the word “carer” here is slightly confusing as most people relate that term to a person caring for someone in that persons own home e.g. family member or friend. The section in qualifications you refer to asking these things is primarily aimed at people working in day centres, residential homes etc (who require under new registration regimes to have level 2 as a minimum qualification to be registered and work in the care sector), and, rightly in my view, is to ensure that those working in this area are at least aware of the need to ensure equipment is in good condition and safe to use. We expect staff in our units (ok primarily senior staff) to be aware of and check equipment. In reality this usually means checking that the equipment has the appropriate test label on it and it is within date: lifting equipment/hoists, fire extinguishers etc. Whilst we expect them to know that testing under LOLER etc. is required we do not expect them to know the regulations. I feel these are the reasons why care staff courses cover such areas. Cheers.