The Patient Moving and Handling Risk Assessment is a critical document required by South African healthcare facilities to ensure compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act No. 85 of 1993 and related healthcare regulations. This assessment is essential whenever healthcare providers need to move or handle patients, particularly in situations involving mobility-impaired individuals, complex medical conditions, or specialized equipment use. The document helps organizations identify potential risks, implement appropriate control measures, and maintain proper documentation of their risk management procedures. It includes comprehensive evaluations of patient characteristics, environmental factors, equipment requirements, and staff capabilities, serving as both a risk management tool and a legal compliance document. Regular updates and reviews of this assessment are required to maintain current risk management strategies and ensure ongoing safety for both healthcare workers and patients.

1. Assessment Details: Date, location, assessor name and qualifications, and patient identifier

2. Patient Information: Relevant medical history, physical condition, cognitive status, and current mobility status

3. Current Handling Requirements: Description of typical moving and handling tasks required for this patient

4. Risk Factors Assessment: Evaluation of specific risk factors including patient's weight, mobility level, consciousness, cooperation level, and any physical constraints

5. Environmental Assessment: Evaluation of the physical environment where handling will take place, including space constraints and floor conditions

6. Equipment Requirements: List of required handling equipment and aids, including their availability and condition

7. Staff Requirements: Number of staff required for safe handling and any specific training needs

8. Control Measures: Detailed description of recommended handling techniques and precautions

9. Emergency Procedures: Specific procedures for emergency situations

10. Review Requirements: Timeframes for review and circumstances requiring reassessment