As rising obesity levels continue to cause medical and economic issues across the region, one company is addressing the problem with a product to aid in the movement and rescue of bariatric persons.
The EvacPro+, developed by British company 3ET, a specialist manufacturer of emergency moving and handling equipment, is a heavyweight, compact evacuation stretcher that allows an individual weighing up to 400kg, with a circumference of over 4m, to be moved safely and with dignity.
Designed to maximise the use of sliding techniques rather than lifting, the stretcher features an extra-large slide sheet and durable, hard plastic base. Fixed and movable ladder handles allow up to ten people to work together to move the person and it can also be hoisted when used with the 3ET EvacPRO+ Hoisting Kit, further reducing the risk of manual handling injury to those performing the rescue.
Alison Hayward, director at 3ET, said: ‘The EvacPRO+ has been developed to meet the demands of the emergency services and allows bariatric individuals to be moved discreetly and professionally. It removes the need to pull excessively on them or their clothing even in restricted spaces or awkward positions. Not only is this more respectful, it makes the rescue quicker, more professional and safer for everyone involved.
‘The number of bariatric individuals is increasing, and the emergency services need to be prepared for the rescue of persons of any size and in complex situations. This includes using the right equipment and training with aids such as Bariquins, oversized and weighted mannequins for practising the safe and efficient manoeuvre or rescue of a plus-sized person.’
EvacPRO+ is used by the British emergency services and performed well in the recent successful rescue of a bariatric individual weighing just over 400kg.
For more information, go to www.3ET.co.uk
