HealthCo Forte User manual

Forte
User Manual
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IMPORTANT:
Do not use the FORTE LIFTING HOIST without having first read this manual.

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CONTENTS
FORTE 320 Overview 3
Important safety considerations 4
FORTE 320 Assembly instructions 6
Hoist operation and charging 7
Lifting procedures 10
Maintenance 12
Trouble shooting 13
Specifications 14
Warranty 15
Slings 16
Key to symbols 17
Parts list 17
Log book 18

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FORTE 320
Overview
The FORTE 320 is a compact, ergonomic designed heavy-duty
mobile patient lifting hoist with a safe working load of 320kg. With
robust powder coated steel construction this lifter is ideally suited
for institutional use or as a compact heavy-duty home care hoist for
the bariatric patient.
The FORTE 320 whilst being compact, offers superior patient lift space
through the combination of the recessed actuator and the use of SPACE
LINK™ technology. The unique feature of SPACE LINK™ allows a
patient to be rotated through 360° at full lift height, thus making the
carers job easier and safer.
The FORTE 320 provides infection control advantages through the
aesthetic design of the concealed electric leg spread mechanism
The FORTE 320 lifting range allows patients to be lifted from the floor,
bed or chair with ease and safety.
The FORTE 320 is a powered unit using trusted industry leading LINAK
components, giving a safe working load (SWL) of 320kg
Options available with the FORTE 320
WARNING –the SWL of 320kg must NEVER be exceeded. When using
the FORTE 320 with other components (e.g. slings or attachments) the
component with the LOWEST SWL is always the maximum lifting capacity
✓Standard 2 Point Yoke
✓Bariatric 4 Point Yoke
✓Standard Pivot Frame / Powered Pivot Frame
✓Bariatric Pivot Frame / Powered Bariatric Pivot Frame
✓Integrated Weighing Device option for above¹
The range of patient lifting equipment, including lifters, slings and
accessories, has been designed and tested to comply with AS ISO
10535 –2011, (Hoists for the transfer of disabled persons –
Requirements and test methods)
¹CAUTION -Weigh scale is not intended for clinical assessment.

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IMPORTANT SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
INTENDED USE OF THE PRODUCT
The FORTE 320 compact mobile patient lifting hoist has been
designed to lift and transfer a less able person with the assistance of
a carer.
The FORTE 320 should be used with one of the HealthCo range of
patient slings, as assessed by a competent trained person.
NB. Not all slings and accessories are compatible with this hoist. If
you are unsure please contact HealthCo Ltd.
The correct and appropriate use of the FORTE 320 hoist will reduce
the risks associated with manual patient handling. The lifting /
transferring task should be assessed & planned by a trained user.
SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
✓Ensure that all users read this guide before operating the
hoist.
✓Do not operate the hoist without training in the safe
operation of hoists & slings. IF IN DOUBT DO NOT USE.
✓Only use slings which have been assessed as suitable by a
competent trained professional.
✓Read the relevant sling users guide which is provided with
each sling, before use.
✓Do not use the hoist if there is any doubt about wear or
damage to the unit. In particular the spreader bar or the
Pivot Frame.
✓Do not use the hoist if there is any fraying or stitch damage
to the sling or if the sling is damaged in any other way.
✓DO NOT EXCEED THE SAFE WORKING LOAD OF THE
FORTE 320 HOIST –320kg
✓Ensure when the hoist is in use that the surrounding area is
clear and the person being lifted is clear of all obstructing
objects.

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Doc Forte1.1 FORTE 320 User Manual | 5
Jib
Battery &
Control Box
Push
Handle
Mast
Leg
Base Chassis
Direction of
Travel
Single 100mm
Front Castor Option
Bariatric 4 PT Yoke
Actuator

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ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS FORTE 320
The range of patient lifting and transfer hoists are fully assembled,
load tested and certified at the factory before being partially dismantled
for packing and shipping.
Use the instructions below as a guideto assembleyour FORTE 320
hoist.
1. Remove lifter components from protective packing and lay out on a
smooth surface to prevent damage to powder coating on lifter sub
assemblies.
2. Slide the cable end protruding from bottom of the mast into the
appropriate upright on the base chassis.
3. **2 people needed**Lift the mast assembly and slide over the twin
mast uprights on the base chassis (remove rubber bands from the
uprights).Ensure the mast assembly is seated firmly on the
stoppers.
4. Use the 2 screws provided to secure the mast assembly to the base
chassis.Slide the rubber covers down the mast uprights to cover
the stoppers.
5. Attach lift actuator to jib, by aligning actuator clevis with actuator
mount bracket. Insert bolt and tighten Nyloc nut.
6. Attach push handles with fasteners supplied.Slide the rubber
covers over the handle and clip into place
7. **2 people needed**Tilt the lifter over onto its side and connect the
cable end (see step 2) to the leg spread actuator.
8. Loop the excess cable and use the cable-tie to fasten to the leg
spread actuator body.
9. Put the base cover over the leg actuator and fasten with the 8
plastic clips provided.
10. Attach battery by clipping battery pack on top of control box.
11. Plug the lift actuator cable into port 1 positioned on the underside of
the control box, ensuring it is driven firmly home in the socket.
12. Plug the leg actuator lead into port 2 positioned on the underside of
the control box (See next diagram).
13. Plug the handset lead into the large socket on underside of control
box (See next diagram). Ensure alignment of tongue on handset
plug with groove in control box handset connection port. When
aligned press home firmly. A smear of Vaseline on the o ring may
assist if plug is tight.
14. Check operation of lifter via handset, ensuring that the RED
EMERGENCY STOP BUTTON ON THE CONTROL BOX IS
RELEASED. Turn the knob quarter turn clockwise to release.

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HOIST OPERATION AND CHARGING
HANDSET
✓The handset activates the lift actuator by the use of two low
pressure buttons, protected by a strong plastic cover. These
are symbolised by arrows (diagram). The arrows indicate the
direction of travel to raise or lower the hoist jib. When either
button is released the jib will remain in position.
✓The FORTE 320 hoist incorporates an actuator driven leg
opening adjustment. Two buttons will be seen on the
handset with arrows and symbolised legs indicating the
direction of travel. This function allows an unrestricted range
of leg adjustment.
✓The handset is also fitted with a battery indicator light. This
will flash when the batteries reach a maximum discharge of
18 volts. NB the light will only flash when the hoist is under
load.
✓The connection for the handset is located on the underside
of the control box.
Handset Port
Lift Actuator –
Port 1
Leg Actuator –
Port 2

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ACTUATOR
The FORTE 320 mobile patient lifting hoist uses a LINAK single speed
actuator with an emergency controlled lowering release handle. (twist red
collar located at top of actuator shaft clockwise). This allows the patient to be
lowered in the event of a fault in the hoist or deep discharged batteries.
CHARGING DOs & DON’Ts
The FORTE 320 is supplied with a LINAK Lithium Li-Ion 4.5Ah battery,
to which the following charging instructions are applicable. The Lithium
battery is identified by the below symbol at the bottom of the battery.
DO
✓Charge whenever possible, Lithium Li-Ion batteries should be frequently
charged; when the low battery warning indicates charging is required charge
as soon as it is practical to do so. If battery has not been used for some
time, recharge before use.
✓Only use a LINAK charger with a LINAK battery.
✓Store and charge batteries only in dry room
✓Inspect all cables particularly the mains power cable on the charger for any
damage; replace where necessary.
✓Stow the handset and if fitted with charger, the mains power cable when
transporting the hoist.
✓Clean the actuators, control box, charger, battery and handset at regular
intervals to remove dust and dirt. The contacts of chargers and battery
packs must always be kept clean
DON’T
✓Charge a damaged battery pack. Replace with a new one.
✓Break open a battery pack or a charger.
✓Expose battery to heat or sunshine for an extended period of time (risk of
overheating). Temperatures in excess of 50C reduce battery performance.

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FORTE 320 External Charging Unit
The FORTE 320 is supplied with a LINAK external wall mount charger.
This is powered by plugging the 3-pin plug into a standard 240V ac
outlet.
To recharge the battery pack, perform the following steps:
1) Release battery pack from control box by pulling the handle on
the pack towards you. Use both hands to support the battery
pack when removing or replacing it.
2) Clip the battery pack from the control box onto the charging unit,
ensuring it is seated properly on the charger base
3) Charger will automatically activate the charging sequence
CHARGING INDICATOR DISPLAY
✓GREEN mains power on light will be illuminated when
connected to 240 v power supply.
✓ORANGE LIGHT illuminated indicates battery currently
charging.
✓ORANGE LIGHT will extinguish when battery pack is fully
charged.

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LIFTING PROCEDURES
✓Carer should be fully conversant and trained in the use of
lifter and sling. This will decrease patient apprehension and
increase their co-operation and overall safety of the lifting
process.
✓Where possible always pull the lifter for maximum safety and
comfort.
✓Move the hoist slowly to avoid patient swing whilst standing.
✓The hoist should not be used on uneven surfaces or on an
incline greater than 5 deg.
✓Never leave a patient in a sling unattended.
✓Ensure brakes of the chair, bed, trolley that the patient is
being lifted from are locked.
✓The braking castors on the lifter should be off. This allows
the lifter to create its own centre of gravity (C.G,) over the
weight of the patient. N.B. This action may result in the lifter
moving slightly during the initial phase of the lift.
GENERAL LIFTING PROCEDURE
The information supplied below is not intended to be construed as a
training manual but as a general guide to lifting procedure only.
✓Fit sling to patient (REFER TO SLING INSTRUCTION FOR USE).
✓Manoeuvre the hoist around the patient, adjusting the legs to
fit around chair, wheel chair etc. If lifting from abed ensure
under bed clearance is sufficient to manoeuvre the lifter legs.
✓Lower the spreader bar sufficiently to allow fitting of sling
attachment loops onto the spreader bar hooks. Ensure
spreader bar does not contact with patients face or body.
✓If using the Pivot Frame, lower the Pivot Frame sufficiently
to allow attachment of the keyhole buckles onto the Pivot
Frame studs.
✓Use the handset to raise the hoist boom enough to take up
the patient’s weight. At this point stop the lift, check all sling
attachments are secure and that the sling is positioned
correctly. Check patient comfort. Lower and realign sling if
necessary.
✓Continue to lift until patient is clear of chair, bed etc.
ensuring that during the course of the lift the patient is clear
of any obstructions.

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MOVING THE PATIENT
A PATIENT HOIST IS PRIMARILY A LIFTING DEVICE. If possible
always move patients from room to room in a wheelchair or other
transport device. However, If you must move a patient while
supported in a lifter the following are suggested:
✓Lower the patient so the feet are just off the ground. This
enhances the patients’ perception of security.
✓Where possible always pull the lifter rather than push, in
particular when changing direction or steering around
corners.
✓Walk the rear of the hoist around so that it is heading in the
new direction.
✓Whilst manoeuvring in a small or confined area, two carers
will make the job easier.
✓Move the hoist smoothly and avoid abrupt stops and turns to
minimise patient swing.
LOWERING THE PATIENT
✓Position the patient over the chair or bed to be lowered onto
and begin the lowering procedure with the handset down
button. Check to make sure the patient remains comfortable
during descent.
.
✓All General Purpose and Pivot slings have handles sewn
onto the back of the sling. These will assist the carer to pull
back the patient into the correct position for seating.

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GENERAL MAINTENANCE
To prolong the working life of the lifter and for trouble free operation
it is recommended that periodic inspections should be performed
routinely and as often as necessary. Periodic inspections should be
performed by a person who is suitably qualified and well acquainted
with the design, use and care of patient lifting hoists.
If inspection reveals that the safety of the hoist is jeopardised in any
way the hoist should be IMMEDIATELY WITHDRAWN FROM
SERVICE, tagged as such and the owner notified.
MAINTENANCE GUIDE & CHECK LIST
✓General visual inspection of lifter.
✓Check castors are tightly attached to legs.
✓Check castors run & swivel freely, remove any hair & fluff
from axle.
✓Check castor brakes operate efficiently.
✓Overhaul castors & pack with grease.
✓Inspect surfaces for scratches & chips
✓Clean surfacers with a neutral detergent; remove any
adhesive tape with orange or eucalyptus oil.
✓Examine all moving parts and fasteners for wear and fatigue,
lubricate and /or adjust as required.
✓NB leg pivot bushes incorporate a Teflon coated pivot bush
which requires minimal lubrication.
✓Check tightness of bolt in leg bushes.
✓Check linkage pins are secure in leg spread linkage points.
✓Check all electrical components for correct operation.
✓Check battery charger operation.
✓Remove dirt & dust from actuator.
✓Wipe actuator shaft with oiled rag (DO NOT use WD40 or
equivalent.)
✓Check SPACE LINK pivot link and regrease.
✓Check spreader bar/tilt frame attachment to SPACE LINK.
Remove bolt & regrease. Ensure SPACE LINK and
attachments move freely.
A MAJOR SERVICE SHOULD BE CARRIED OUT EVERY 12
MONTHS AS A MINIMUM REQUIREMENT.
IMPORTANT: An annual load test to the safe working load (swl)
is required for compliance with AS ISO 10535 –2011

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TROUBLE SHOOTING
WARNING TROUBLE SHOOTING SHOULD ONLY BE CARRIED
OUT BY HEALTHCO LTD AUTHORISED PERSONNEL
FAMILIAR WITH BOTH USE, ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL
FEATURES OF PATIENT LIFTING HOISTS.
The following is a guideline only to general trouble shooting.
Before carrying out any trouble shooting ensure that.
Red emergency stop button is released.
Maintenance procedures checked & followed.
All cable connections are secure.
Battery is fully charged.
POSSIBLE FAULT ACTION
Warning buzzer sounds within
control box Battery not charged / defective. Recharge / replace battery.
Battery charger power indicator
LED does not light up.
No mains connection.
Internal fuse blown.
Battery charger is defective.
Plug into mains.
Replace fuse.
Repair / replace charger.
Actuator will not run and no
relay
click is heard from control box.
Handset is defective.
Control box is defective.
Replace handset.
Repair / replace control box.
Actuator will not run via handset
but control box relays click.
Actuator plug not pushed in to
control box.
Actuator is defective.
Control box is defective.
Push firmly into correct port.
Replace Actuator.
Replace Control box.
Actuator cannot lift full load or
runs slow.
Battery not charged / defective.
Load too high for lifter.
Actuator motor damaged.
Recharge / replace battery.
Replace actuator.
No response from control box,
no clicking of relays is heard.
Emergency stop button engaged.
Hoist battery completely flat.
Blown fuse in battery pack.
Faulty control box.
Release emergency stop button.
Recharge battery.
Replace / repair control box.
Actuator works in one
direction only.
Handset is defective.
Control box is defective.
Replace handset.
Repair / replace control box.

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FORTE 320 SPECIFICATIONS
Twin 75mm
Front Castors
Single 100mm
Front Castor
Safe working load (SWL) 320kg 320kg
Base length 1420mm 1433mm
External base width closed (Base Chassis) 715mm 715mm
External base width open 1200mm 1205mm
Internal base width closed 600mm 590mm
Internal base width open 1080mm 1080mm
Base width adjustment Electric Electric
Base height / under bed clearance 111mm 126mm
Minimum Yoke height 245mm 260mm
Maximum Yoke height 1940mm 1955mm
Overall Height (Boom Raised) 2243mm 2248mm
Minimum storage height 1445mm 1460mm
Under base height (@ lowest point) 15mm 31mm
Maximum hoist reach 810mm 810mm
Lifter weight 63.0kg 63.5kg
Weight of heaviest part (Base Assembly) 37kg 37kg
Handle height > 900mm > 900mm
Electrical approval EN 60601-1 EN 60601-1
Sound level < 40Db @ 1m < 40Db @ 1m

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WARRANTY
HealthCo Ltd warrants its products to be free from defects in
materials and workmanship under normal use and service and
will within the period stated below, from the date of purchase,
repair or replace without cost to the original customer, any part
assembly or portion thereof which shall be returned to
HealthCo Ltd and from OUR inspection shows to be defective.
✓Patient lifter including electronics - 2 years
✓Accessories on lifter - 2 years
✓Patient slings -1 year
✓Weighing devices¹-1 year
✓Batteries - 3 months
HealthCo Ltd cannot be held responsible for any personal injury,
damage to the hoist or damage to property as a result of the
improper or unsafe use of the product.
No warranty claim shall apply where the product or any part thereof
has been modified, varied, altered or damaged either accidentally or
through improper or negligent use
No warranty claim shall apply where the hoistis repaired or serviced
by any persons not accredited by the authorised distributor.
Warranty does not extend to items or components which may require
replacement due to normal wear and tear (e.g. castors, mouldings
and paint work) for which HealthCo Ltd nor its distributors can be
held responsible.
LITHIUM LI-ION BATTERIES
Batteries carry a limited warranty from the original manufacturer
which is subject to a stringent wear and tear clause. Any battery
faults due to defect in original manufacture will normally become
apparent within the first two months of use.
Any gradual deterioration in performance after this period is normally
associated with fair wear and tear, misuse and accidental damage,
and as such is not covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.
¹CAUTION - Weigh scale is not intended for clinical assessment.

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SLINGS
HealthCo Ltd manufactures a large range of patient lifting slings
in both mesh and fabric to suit the range of patient lifting
hoists. A range of custom made to specification slings is
available on request.
SLING SIZES AVAILABLE
•X small, • Small, • Medium, • Large, • X large, • XX large
MAIN SLING CATEGORIES
General Purpose Sling
Amputee Sling
Pivot Sling
General Purpose Sling with Head Support

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KEY TO SYMBOLS
The following symbols are used on the lifter and attachments
including the range of General Purpose and Pivot slings.
SWL Safe working load: this symbol represents the
maximum load the lifter, sling or attachment is rated to
for safe operation.
SLING CARE SYMBOLS
SLING MAINTENANCE AND CARE
WARNING: Prior to use, inspect slings including webbing, straps
and keyhole buckles for wear. Examine stitching for fraying,
breakage and unravelling.
DAMAGED SLINGS SHOULD NOT BE USED.
PARTS LIST AND DESCRIPTION
A full parts list is available upon request
Do not use bleach.
Do not iron.
Do not tumble dry.
Do not dry clean.
Wash at a max temp of
85º Celsius.

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LOG BOOK
Service Type
Condition Report
Date:
Inspected by:
Signature:
Action taken:
Date:
Service Type
Condition Report
Date:
Inspected by:
Signature:
Action taken:
Date:

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Service Type
Condition Report
Date:
Inspected by:
Signature:
Action taken:
Date:
Service Type
Condition Report
Date:
Inspected by:
Signature:
Action taken:
Date: