Slings
No product defined
No product defined in this category.
Choosing the Right Slings
Slings are the essential interface between a hoist and the person being transferred, providing support, comfort and safety throughout the move. Selecting the right sling type and size ensures that weight is distributed correctly, reduces skin-handling risks and preserves dignity for both patient and carer. Because slings differ in load capacity, body coverage, head support and material, a well-chosen sling matches the individual's anatomy and the specific hoist system. A proper fit also helps meet Australian standards and prolongs the life of the sling.
Types of Slings
A versatile sling that offers full-body support for a wide range of weights (typically 80-180 kg). Its simple design makes it suitable for most routine transfers in hospitals, homes and community settings.
Provides comprehensive support from shoulders to hips with separate leg sections for enhanced comfort and reduced shear on the hips, ideal for larger or bariatric users up to 500 kg.
Features a built-in seat and reinforced thigh panels to keep the user upright during a transfer, supporting weights from 70 kg to 150 kg and often used for wheelchair-to-bed moves.
Designed with a sturdy waist belt and thigh supports that allow the user to be raised into a standing position, commonly selected for rehabilitation and gait training for users up to 120 kg.
A lightweight, low-profile sling with a front-loop that enables safe ambulation while attached to a hoist bar system, recommended for users who can bear weight on their feet up to 90 kg.
A cost-effective, sterile option made from polypropylene or net material, intended for single-patient use and quick disposal after a transfer, especially in infection-control environments.
Key Features to Consider Before Buying
Every sling lists its own Safe Working Load — from around 70 kg for lighter-duty seating or ambulating slings up to 500 kg for bariatric full-body designs — and must meet AS/NZS ISO 10535, giving confidence that the sling safely carries the intended weight and complies with national safety requirements.
Products specify compatible hoists such as Molift Quick Raiser, sling-bar systems and floor-mounted hoists, ensuring the attachment points align and the lift performs as engineered.
Sizing guides reference waist circumference, shoulder width and user weight ranges (e.g., 12-17 kg paediatric to 165 kg bariatric) so carers can select a sling that wraps snugly without constriction.
Slings are offered with three-point or four-point loop configurations; more loops distribute load across the body and are preferred for heavier users or when added stability is required.
Some models include an integrated head cradle or optional head-support patch, useful for patients with limited neck control or who need to keep the head upright during transfers.
Materials range from padded polyester to breathable mesh and netting; most are machine-washable up to 85 °C, providing a hygienic solution that tolerates frequent cleaning in clinical environments.
An Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) number confirms the sling has been evaluated for quality and safety, giving carers confidence in product provenance.
Funding & Costs
Products in this category are commonly funded through the pathways below — always confirm eligibility and the current code with your plan manager, OT, or our team.
National Disability Insurance Scheme
- Core Supports — Basic / Low-risk — Level 1 : Standard slings — generally treated as a low-cost consumable alongside a funded hoist.
- Core or Capital Supports — Standard — Level 2 : Specialised slings (bariatric, ambulating) alongside a Level 2+ hoist. (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT))
Australian Government Support at Home Program
- AT-HM Low Tier
- AT-HM Medium Tier
Statewide Equipment Program (Victoria)
- Aids & Equipment Program (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT), Physiotherapist, Speech Pathologist)
Department of Veterans' Affairs
- Gold Card — Full Coverage (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT), General Practitioner / Medical Specialist)
- White Card — Accepted Condition Only (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT), General Practitioner / Medical Specialist)
Frequently Asked Questions
First measure the user's waist circumference at the narrowest point and the shoulder width across the back. Match these dimensions to the manufacturer's size chart, which also lists a recommended weight range. When in doubt, choose the next larger size to avoid compression, as a correctly sized sling should fit snugly but allow two fingers of clearance around the waist.
Check the sling's product description for a list of compatible hoists and attachment methods (e.g., hook, sling-bar, quick-raiser). Compare the hoist's lift arm length and the sling's loop configuration; a three-point sling works with most standard hoists, while a four-point sling may need a bar or swivel. If the hoist is from a specific brand such as Molift, look for that brand's endorsement on the sling page.
Disposable slings are ideal for high-infection-risk settings, short-term use or when a patient's skin condition demands a sterile surface that can be discarded after each transfer. Reusable slings made of polyester or mesh are more economical for routine, long-term use and can be machine-washed at 85 °C to maintain hygiene. Choose based on infection-control policy, frequency of transfers and budget considerations.
Three-point slings are sufficient for most standard transfers and lighter users, providing a simple attachment that balances the load across the shoulders, waist and thigh. Four-point slings add an extra loop at the hips or thigh, distributing weight more evenly for heavier users (above 150 kg) or when extra stability is required during complex maneuvers such as standing transfers.
Inspect slings before each use for signs of wear, fraying, broken stitching or loss of elasticity. A professional inspection schedule of every six months is recommended for reusable slings used in high-frequency settings. Replace any sling that shows damage, has been exposed to chemicals that degrade the material, or has exceeded its manufacturer-stated service life (often 2-3 years for polyester models).