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How to Use the Hoyer HML400 Hydraulic Lift Safely

How to Use the Hoyer HML400 Hydraulic Lift Safely

The Hoyer HML400 is a manual hydraulic patient lift with a 400 lb safe working load. It uses a hydraulic pump rather than an electric lifting motor and features an adjustable U-shaped base for positioning around wheelchairs, chairs, beds, and other transfer surfaces.

Preparation Checklist

  • Clear the transfer path and remove rugs, cords, clutter, and other obstacles.
  • Inspect the HML400, cradle, hydraulic system, wheels, and sling before use.
  • Select a Hoyer sling that is compatible with the HML400 attachment system and appropriate for the patient.
  • Confirm that the sling is the correct size and has a safe working load appropriate for the patient.
  • Position the adjustable U-base as needed for access to the transfer surface.
  • Widen the base as much as practical for stability before lifting.
  • Keep the casters free and the brakes unlocked while lifting the patient.
  • Plan the transfer and explain the process to the patient before beginning.

Standard Transfer Sequence

  1. Position the HML400 around the patient and widen the adjustable U-base as appropriate for the transfer.
  2. Keep the caster brakes released while lifting.
  3. Apply the appropriate sling according to the sling instructions.
  4. Attach the sling securely to the HML400 cradle using the correct attachment points.
  5. Confirm that all sling attachment points are secure before lifting.
  6. Close the hydraulic pressure release knob by turning it clockwise before raising the patient.
  7. Pump the hydraulic handle smoothly to raise the patient.
  8. Move the lift carefully to the destination surface.
  9. To lower the patient, slowly open the hydraulic pressure release knob counterclockwise, no more than one full turn, and guide the descent in a controlled manner.
  10. Once the patient is safely supported, detach and remove the sling as appropriate.

HML400 Caster & Brake Safety

The Hoyer HML400 has rear caster brakes intended for parking. Joerns specifically instructs users not to lock the brakes or block the wheels while lifting a patient.

Keeping the wheels free while lifting allows the lift to move naturally as the patient’s weight shifts. Always follow the current HML400 user manual for the specific transfer being performed.

Hydraulic Pump Operation

The HML400 uses a manual hydraulic pump to raise and lower the boom. Before raising the patient, the hydraulic pressure release knob should be closed by turning it clockwise.

Pump the handle using smooth, controlled strokes. Joerns cautions against pressing down hard on the pump handle when the bottom of the stroke is reached.

To lower the patient, open the pressure release knob slowly by turning it counterclockwise no more than one full turn. Guide the patient’s descent in a controlled manner.

Rotating Pump Handle

One of the HML400’s distinguishing features is its rotating hydraulic pump handle. The handle can be rotated from side to side, allowing the caregiver to operate the lift from either side when positioning around beds, chairs, and other furniture.

Adjustable U-Base

The HML400 uses an adjustable U-shaped base that can be widened or narrowed to improve access around wheelchairs and other furniture.

Joerns instructs users to widen the base as much as possible for stability when lifting a patient.

400 lb Safe Working Load

The Hoyer HML400 has a maximum safe working load of 400 lb. Never exceed the safe working load of the lift or the sling being used.

HML400 Sling Attachment System

The HML400 is part of the Hoyer Classic series and uses a classic cradle designed for compatible loop-style sling attachments. Always confirm that the sling attachment style matches the cradle installed on the lift.

Sling selection should be based on the patient’s measurements, mobility, positioning needs, transfer type, and clinical assessment.

Compatible Hoyer Classic Slings

Compatible Hoyer sling options available from MyHoyerLift include:

The sling must match the HML400 cradle configuration and be appropriate for the patient. Always verify sling size, safe working load, attachment type, and condition before use.

Not sure which sling fits your HML400? Use our Hoyer Sling Compatibility Chart to compare compatible Hoyer sling styles.

Sling Inspection

Inspect the sling and web straps before every transfer. Do not use a sling that is torn, cut, frayed, excessively worn, or otherwise damaged.

Related Hoyer Patient Lifts

Need Help With Your Hoyer HML400?

Call 877-33-HOYER for help identifying compatible Hoyer Classic slings, replacement parts, accessories, or the correct Joerns manufacturer resources for your Hoyer HML400.

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