Why physiotherapy matters for manual handling in SIL homes
Intro
Supported Independent Living (SIL) houses run on routines, care and teamwork — but one thing I see again and again is transfer plans and manual handling protocols that haven’t been reviewed for a while. That’s risky for participants and staff, and it’s exactly the sort of problem physiotherapy can fix — quickly, practically and respectfully.
What’s the issue?
Manual handling of people is consistently a major source of workplace injury and a key area of risk in supported living settings. Providers are expected to manage manual handling risks and keep supports safe and up-to-date under the NDIS Practice Standards and related guidance. NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission+1
The NDIS Commission also highlights safe use of hoists and the need for risk assessment, training and appropriate equipment as essential to keeping participants and staff safe. NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission
Work health & safety agencies (eg Safe Work Australia and state regulators) recommend a hierarchy of controls for manual tasks — eliminate hazards where possible, use mechanical aids (hoists, lifts), design tasks to reduce awkward postures, and provide staff training. A well-run physiotherapy review helps tick all those boxes. Safe Work Australia+1
What can physiotherapy actually do?
Short answer: practical, targeted fixes that reduce injury risk and improve participant comfort.
Typical physiotherapy input for SIL houses includes:
Individual transfer & manual handling assessments (functional transfers, hoist/sling suitability + other assistive technology)
12-monthly reviews to keep plans current and equipment appropriate
During these reviews, it often becomes clear that previously prescribed equipment may no longer be suitable for the participant. We can then prescribe updated equipment that better fits both the participant and the support team, improving safety and comfort.
Hands-on staff training (hoist operation, slide-sheet, safe sit-to-stand technique)
Clear written transfer protocols that sit in the house file for staff and visiting clinicians
Liaison with equipment suppliers and MDT team for complex equipment or bespoke slings
Research and reviews show training plus system changes (equipment, environment, process) are the approaches most likely to reduce staff musculoskeletal risk — so training that comes with an equipment and process review is better than training alone. ScienceDirect+1
A quick checklist for SIL house managers
(Use this when you book a review — it saves time and gets results fast)
Is there a current transfer protocol for each participant? (date-stamped)
When was the last manual handling / hoist competency check for staff?
Are slings the correct size/type and labelled to the participant?
Is the environment optimised (bed/chair heights, clear space for hoists)?
Do staff know where the written protocol is kept and how to access it?
If you can’t answer these quickly, a brief physiotherapy review will find the gaps and give simple, actionable steps.
Real benefits (what providers tell me)
Fewer staff injuries and less sick leave.
Safer, more dignified transfers for participants.
Documentation ready for audits / practice reviews.
Staff feel more confident — which improves care and retention.
Read more (NDIS & safety guidance):
NDIS Practice Standards and Quality Indicators. NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission
NDIS Commission Practice Alert — Safe Use of Hoists. NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission
Safe Work Australia — Model Code of Practice: Hazardous Manual Tasks. Safe Work Australia
Get Started:
If your SIL houses haven’t had a review recently, reach out here to schedule an appointment — no waitlist or contact me at:
E: max@function2freedom.com.au
Ph: 0474 089 786
If you’re unsure whether physiotherapy funding is available for any participants, I’m happy to advise or liaise with their support coordinator to explore options.
