How to use bed rails safely

This information is for people who have been provided with equipment from health or social services. It is a reminder of how to use and look after the bed rails provided to you.

How do I use bed rails safely?

A health or social care worker checked if using bed rails is safe and helpful to you. This is called a risk assessment. The reason for using bed rails is to stop someone falling out of bed and injuring themselves. They are not meant to stop you from getting out of bed if you wish to do so.

How do I use bed rails?

The person fitting your bed rails will give you a copy of the manufacturer’s instructions. They will also show you how to use the bed rails.

You should check your bed rails regularly to make sure they are safe and fit for use.

Look at all parts of the rails to make sure they are working.

Check the bed rails for:

• rusting or cracks in the metal frame or joints
• flaking paintwork
• missing locking handles and fixing clamps
• loose fixings
• looseness in the joints
• worn threads on screws and clamps
• bent or distorted parts

Keeping you safe

You should contact Medequip if:

• you are worried about any part of your body getting stuck in the gaps of the bed rails
• you think the bed rails are in the wrong place. Do not move or remove these yourself
• the bed that the rails are fitted to is changed
• the mattress is replaced
• an extra mattress is put on top of the one on the bed
• there are any changes in your health condition, including if you have lost a lot of weight or if you are feeling more confused or agitated
• the bed rails move out of position and a gap appears between the bedrail and the side of the mattress
• the mattress sags at the sides and there is a bigger gap between the bottom of the bed rail and squashed mattress when you sit on it

Who do I contact if there is a problem?

If you have any problems using your bed rails, or find any damage, call your local equipment provider right away.

Who should I contact when I do not need the equipment anymore?

Please contact your local equipment provider who will collect the bed rails when you have finished using them.

Your local equipment provider is Medequip in Rotherham.
Email: rotherham@medequip-uk.com 
Telephone: 01709 916889
Opening hours: 8.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday
Visit the Medequip website.