The Handbook of Transfers details principals of safe handling and provides pragmatic examples of safer handling techniques. The Handbook is an essential manual handling reference tool for any clinician or back care advisor.

The Handbook of Transfers has been adapted from the successful ‘Transfers Manual’ (Hanneke JJ Knibbe 2005) originally developed by Corpus and LOCOmotion research agency in Holland. This UK version has been written with direct reference to relevant UK legislation such as the Manual Handling Operations Regulations (1992) and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations (1998). Consideration has also been given to the most current professional guidance, such as that published by the Royal College of Nursing (1996), The College of Occupational Therapy (2006) and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (2008).

The Handbook’s loose-leaf binder format to allow users to insert their own additional information. Each handbook is split into three parts covering:

Part 1
Introduction and theoretical principles covering physical loads, measurement tools, mobility levels, the movement protocol and practical principles for safer transfers.

Part 2
Comprehensive guidance on 36 transfer techniques grouped into five types of transfers:
- Transfers within the limits of the bed
- Transfers from one sitting position to another
- Transfers sitting back in the chair
- Transfers from one lying position to another
- Assistance with walking and assistance when falling and in getting up

Part 3
Equipment information. Here the user can include their own details of equipment they use to perform the techniques described in the handbook.

1
A unique technique number clearly distinguishes each technique and assists with the identification of techniques applied to people, particularly useful where there are changes in care personnel

2
Step-by-step illustrations support the actions described within the text and include details on foot positioning and the direction of movement clearly indicated by contrasting directional arrows.

3
Mobility levels are shown on each technique to provide guidance on the suitability of each technique to the type of person being cared for.

4
Pictograms provide a quick reference to each technique and are used with the Movement Protocol handling plan demonstrated in the handbook.
Pictograms are provided individually on the CD-ROM included, to allow users to print onto standard sticker sizes to be inserted onto handling plans.

5
Detailed descriptions for each technique are provided and provide guidance on the preparation, movement and completion of each technique.
Comments are provided at the end of each description to highlight additional considerations that should be taken into account when performing the technique.

6
Each technique has been evaluated using a number of measurement techniques in keeping with the 5th Edition to the Guide to the Handling of People (Smith, 2005). A summary panel is provided at the end of every technique, with each measurement tool described in detail in Part 1 of the handbook.

For more information about the Handbook of Transfers, or to place an order for your own copy, please download and print the attachments below: