The Safety Vest Crossover is made of two materials. The vented material is cooler, but patients may pick at the ventilation holes. The Polyester material is stronger, but without ventilation holes.
Sizing
The large vest can reduce to a small size due to the crossover at the front. Weight-to-size ratio can vary greatly among patients, with some being tall but thin and others short but with a large chest and hips. Trying both sizes may be necessary.
To fit the vest, put it on with the crossover at the front. Thread the webbing from one side through the loop on the other side. Wrap the webbing around the rear chair legs at the pelvic area, then fasten and adjust. The webbing is long enough for large chairs and can be used in bed.
For Chair Use
To use the vest on chairs, wrap the straps around the chair frame at the pelvic position. The straps work on large reclining chairs or in bed. For wheelchairs, wrap the excess webbing around the rear to make it shorter. Adjust the buckle after fastening.
If a patient tries to walk off while still attached, wind the straps around a handrail or fixture. The Safety Vest Shoulder Strap (sold separately) is an accessory that helps patients who bend forward and can’t sit upright. Fit the webbing belt around the chair back, through the two loops sewn inside the vest by the shoulder. Shoulder straps should not be used in bed.
General Public Restraint Authorisation Letter
If this product is purchased for use in a private home, we require authorisation from a suitable person. This is to ensure it will be used correctly and safely by the family and/or carers, and that using it will not be dangerous. Examples of a suitable person  who is able to sign the letter are: Occupational Therapist; Physiotherapist; Clinical Nurse Manager; Registered Nurse; Doctor; or another suitably qualified person. Please return a copy to us when ordering. Note: This letter is not required when we send restraints to aged care facilities or hospitals, because their staff are already trained in their safe use.
Click here to print the authorisation letter
Note: We are unable to sell this product to the USA.
ALTERNATIVE OR RELATED PRODUCTS
Wash up to 80°C (176°F). Air or tumble dry on a cool setting, ensuring the drum is cool. Ensure the product is dry before using or storing. Do not iron. Do up buckles to reduce the chance of damage. Always inspect for tears or broken buckles after washing.
Only use a Safety Belt or Restraint if all other alternatives have been tried. Ensure Restraint Authorisation has been obtained. Restrained patients should be kept under observation, as their behaviour may alter and another Restraint may be more appropriate. Restraints are a prescribed item. The wrong Restraint or the correct Restraint incorrectly fitted can cause injury or death.
Restraints are a prescribed item. Care Facilities such as Hospitals, Nursing Homes, Aged Care Facilities etc., may order this item. For private sales to a family member, written authorisation is needed from a qualified therapist or medical doctor, approving the use of the correct Restraint for the patient’s current condition. Remember if the patient’s condition changes, then a different type of Restraint may be required. It is necessary to ensure the family are aware of the proper use of Restraints, as these can be dangerous if not used correctly.
General Manual Handling Warning: Manual Handling products are designed to assist carers to help patients. They will not make the carer stronger or fitter, but with correct training and use of the products, should make manual handling easier and safer for both staff and patients. When training, practise with an able-bodied colleague. If any procedure is not comfortable or is difficult and puts the carer or patient in a dangerous position, the participants should call out to stop the manoeuvre, recover and recommence. Never jeopardise your health by straining, twisting or being incorrectly positioned when manual handling. Always select the most appropriate equipment for the patient’s current condition and if in doubt, use mechanical equipment. Ask your Manual Handling adviser for individual guidance.
Correct Buckle Threading: Click here to view a video showing the correct way to thread a buckle onto the webbing. It is vital that the buckles on this product are correctly fitted. Contact us if you need to order a replacement buckle if one is broken.
Which material is stronger and why have two types?
Some people prefer a vented material, some people prefer a polyester material. The vented material is cooler but from testing we have done, it is not as strong as the polyester. Although it is not as strong, both types are suitable for the design of this item.
