RBF Industries Bathmate User manual

Bath-Buddy / Bathmate
Instruction Book
UK RBF Bath buddy instruction 16pp 21/9/07 09:07 Page 1

Thank you for purchasing a Bath-Buddy/Bathmate portable bath lift from RBF Healthcare. We hope you have many years
of satisfied use from this excellent product. To help keep it in good condition please refer to the following instructions. A handy operating
guide is included to enable you to use the Bath-Buddy/Bathmate as quickly as possible.
Inventory
Electrical safety
Setting up and putting cushion in bath
Filling and getting into bath
Leaving bath, disconnecting and cleaning
Technical specification
Trouble shooting guide
Routine maintenance and servicing
Notes for guidance
Appendices
Cautionary notes
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10 -11
12
NOITPIRCSEDEGAP HAVE YOU
COMPLETED YOUR
GUARANTEE CARD?
Please take the time
to complete this
important document.
It’s Free to post or
Free to call if
registering by phone.
ISO 9001:2000
UK RBF Bath buddy instruction 16pp 21/9/07 09:07 Page 2
Inventory
Safety - Critical Information

1
Safety - Critical Information
This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical,
sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been
given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for
their safety and understands the hazards involved.
This appliance can be used by children aged from 8 years or age and above, children less
than 8 years shall be kept away unless continually supervised.
Children shall not play with the appliance.
Cleaning and user maintenance shall not be made by children without supervision.

2
Inventory - Upon opening the box, the following items should be included
The Bath-Buddy/Bathmate consisting of: Other items include
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3
.01esohetihW.4 Electrical installation instructions & fixings
5. Mains lead & plug 11. Carry case (optional) not shown
6. Hand control unit
1
3
2
46
5
10
7
8
9
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3
Electrical Safety
AC 50Hz electricity supply.
WARNINIG
.
UK RBF Bath buddy instruction 16pp 21/9/07 09:07 Page 4
Should the power cord need to be replaced, this should be carried out by the manufacturer,
‘’Hard wiring’’ of the blower unit within the bathroom must comply with the current safety
standards, the procedures described in the enclosed installation instructions for hard wiring
This appliance required a 13 amp fuse. When changing the fuse ensure it is replaced
with an identical rated (13A) Fuse, ASTAproved to BS 1362.
If the fuse cover is damaged, the plug must not be used and should be replaced by the
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4
Setting Up
Making sure the main blower unit is OUTSIDE of the bathroom connect the mains plug into the nearest wall socket (unless the blower unit has been
professionally installed by an electrician in accordance with our electrical installation instructions)
To ensure the cushion sticks to the bath surface correctly, both suckers and surface should be clean and free from deposits
left by cleansers.
Putting the Cushion into the bath
1. With the cushion deflated, place into the bath, making sure the sucker tabs are each pointing
away from the cushion. Care should be taken not to twist, bend or crush the hose during this operation.
IMPORTANT Each sucker must be securely fastened to the bath surface, to check
this pull gently on each sucker to establish adhesion.
2. Switch on the power at the mains supply, checking the green light on
the blower unit is illuminated.
3. Take the hand control unit in either hand and gently depress the up button
until the cushion is fully inflated (see diagram A). The machine is designed
to stop once the correct pressure has been achieved. Releasing the button at
any time will stop inflation (see note 1 in notes section).
IMPORTANT The up button should be depressed until the blower unit stops
inflating automatically, failure to do so will cause the cushion to be under inflated.
Before use check for air leaks from the cushion and hose. Any air leaks will be visible in the form
of air bubbles emitted from the hose or cushion. If any air leaks are present discontinue use and
contact your supplier.
A
UK RBF Bath buddy instruction 16pp 21/9/07 09:07 Page 5

Filling the bath
Once you are sure the cushion is in the correct position water may be added to the bath. It is recommended that approximately
8 - 10 inches (20 - 25 cm) of water is added initially, however, this can be adjusted by the user according to individual needs, and the size
and depth of the bath being used. The water should be of an even mix of hot and cold water.
Note: Temperatures in excess of 50°C (122°F) will distort
the cushion. Remember, if the water is too hot for you
it is probably too hot for the cushion.
Getting into the bath
The bather can enter the bath either by sitting on the edge of the bath
and sliding onto the cushion swinging the legs over and into the bath, or by stepping into the bath and sitting on the
cushion. You should be centrally placed within the coloured anti-slip seating area of the cushion, with your lower
back positioned against the lumbar support*(see diagram B). Sitting forwards or backwards of centre will cause an
uneven descent. Sitting centrally the bather is now ready to be lowered into the bath. Taking the hand control unit in
either hand, gently depress the down button (see diagram C). The cushion will gently deflate. Releasing the button at
any time will stop this action, to continue depress the button again maintaining contact until right at the bottom of
the bath. To aid stability a fixed grab rail should be used with the Bath-Buddy. If a grab rail is not available then RBF
Healthcare or your dealer can supply one as an accessory. Please see appendix A for guidance on positioning of the
grab rail. In addition the bather may also find it useful to rest one, or both hands on the sides of the bath to further
aid balance.
During the deflate cycle the lumbar support and seat area of the cushion will slowly fold in and around the user,
promoting a supported descent into the bath. The bather should always allow the front part of the cushion to fully
deflate before attempting to lie back. By stretching out the legs when the cushion is approximately2/3deflated, the air
in the front of the cushion will be forced out. Once this has been achieved, the bather can recline against the back
surface of the bath and bathe in the normal way. It is not recommended that the bather leave the coloured seating
area of the cushion while bathing.
During the assessment for the Bath-Buddy, special consideration should be taken when the potential user is a child or
a severely disabled or infirmed user. In these instances it may be necessary for the user to bath with supervision or
assistance from a carer. CONTINUED OVERLEAF
5
B
C
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6
Leaving the bath
When the bather is ready to leave the bath they should sit upright and ensure a central seating position is achieved within the coloured anti-slip seating area of
the cushion*. This position will ensure maximum safety during the inflate cycle. Taking the hand control unit in either hand de press the up button. The cushion
will slowly inflate to bring the bather back level with the top edge of the bath. Continue to depress the button until the blower stops automatically. During the
inflate cycle the bather should use the grab rail to improve balance. In addition the bather may also find it useful to rest one or both hands on the sides of the
bath to further aid balance.
The bather can now exit the bath by either swinging the legs over the bath, moving sideways off the cushion
or by stepping over and out of the bath.
Disconnecting
Please ensure the electrical supply is switched off and the green indicator light on the blower unit is off.
THE EQUIPMENT SHOULD NOT BE LEFT UNATTENDED WHILST CONNECTED TO THE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY, AND THE BLOWER
UNIT LEFT RUNNING FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD.
After use the cushion should be deflated, at least partially to help remove it from the bath. To avoid putting undue strain on the cushion or suckers, the cushion
should be removed from the bath by lifting the sucker release tabs. Do not pull the cushion (see diagram D).
To fully deflate the cushion for storage simply disconnect the hose from the blower unit by depressing the button on the top ofthe
connector and pulling it away from the blower. This will allow most of the air to flow quickly out of the cushion. To remove the last
of the air, apply gentle pressure to the cushion or roll the cushion into a cylinder, starting with the end furthest away fromthe
hose.
Cleaning
The hand control unit, hose and cushion should be dried after use. In situations where there is a risk of passing infection, these
components should be sanitised with water based disinfectants rinsed and thoroughly dried. It is particularly important to store
the cushion dry.
The screw fixing suckers can be removed individually to be cleaned and then replaced.
D
Getting into the bath - continued
*IMPORTANT
A central sitting position on the cushion is vital whilst being raised or lowered. Leaning forwards slightly will help maintainstability. Please do not lean
backwards as this may result in an uneven descent or elevation. Should this occur during the deflate or inflate cycle, the bather should simply stop the cycle
using the hand control and re-position so they are seated within the coloured seating area, before continuing.
UK RBF Bath buddy instruction 16pp 21/9/07 09:07 Page 7

7
Cushion Stroke height (Tall) 1.5 to 380mm (455mm)
W to 345mm
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D to 334mm Cushion Dimensions (Tall) H to 380mm (455)
D to 590mm (590)
Operating pressure + 5% Normal to 105 mbar
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Pressure switch rating 10A 250Vac Maximum Working Load 127Kg
Control valve rating 240Vac 50Hz Hose length 3.70 Metres
Motor power rating 1000W + 1.5% Control lead length 3.00 Metres
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Mode of Operation
(ED 10%) Drive time to 2 mins. Stop time to 18 mins
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Temperature -20 to 50 Deg. C Temperature 0 to 50 Deg. C
Humidity (non-condensing) 20% to 95% Humidity (non-condensing) 30% to 95%
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Classifications Max. Noise Level 70 dB (A)
Protection Class 2
Device Type BF
Water Ingress IPX4
Medical Device Class 1
Technical
Note: The supplier agrees to make available upon request; certain technical
information and documentation required, to assist an appropriately qualified
technical person to repair those parts of the equipment that are designated by the
manufacturer as repairable.
UK RBF Bath buddy instruction 16pp 21/9/07 09:07 Page 8

NOITADNEMMOCER/NOITULOSMELBORP
The hand control ON button is not being fully depressed, or the hose in kinked.
Keep pressing the button until the motor stops automatically, check hose is not kinked.
Release the UP button, which will stop the motor running. The system is designed so that it
cannot over inflate the cushion. Should the blower unit continue to operate for more than 20
seconds after the cushion is fully inflated, release the UP button and consult your dealer for advice.
If the light is out, check the fuse in the main plug. If the light is on wait 40 minutes for unit
to cool down, and try to operate again. If fault continues consult your dealer for advice.
Distorted patches indicate an exposure to temperatures above 50°C.
DO NOT USE Return for replacement.
The cushion cannot over-inflate unless it has previously been in contact with water above 50°C.
If the remaining seal is 3mm (1/8") wide or less, return the equipment for a replacement cushion.
This will only occur if the inner seam has failed.
Return the equipment for a replacement cushion.
DO NOT USE Return for replacement cushion.
Air must be forced out of the cushion, disconnect the hose from the blower unit, this will allow most of
the air to flow out of the cushion. To remove the last of the air, apply gentle pressure to the cushion,
or roll the cushion into a cylinder, starting with the end furthest away from the hose.
Ensure the suckers and the bath are free from powdery deposits or oils.
Dry and clean before attaching the cushion.
Contact the manufacturer for spares and screw these in.
DO NOT USE There is a fault with the cushion or hose. Contact your dealer for advice.
The cushion inflates in a stop and start
fashion.
The cushion is fully inflated but the motor is
not cutting out.
The motor has stopped and will not start
again.
The cushion has distorted in places.
The cushion appears to be over-inflating.
The seams appear to be opening up slowly.
Air bubbles are emitted from between the
double seam at the base of the cushion.
The area around the hose connecting flange
has distorted.
The cushion does not appear to deflate fully.
The cushion is sliding in the bath.
Suckers have come off the cushion.
Air is escaping into the bath water.
8
Trouble Shooting Guide
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9
Accessories
PART NUMBER DESCRIPTION
BB 0221 CARRY CASE
BB 0222 GRAB RAIL
Routine Maintenance & Servicing
The following should be carried out at the intervals specified:
1. Remove the cushion from the bath after every use and clean the cushion and suckers as per the
instructions on page 5.
2. Check the seams on the cushion after every use as detailed on page 12.
3. Change the fuse as required to the rating and specification on page 2.
4. For maintenance and servicing within the public sector, i.e. Hospitals and Nursing Homes, please contact your local dealer,
or RBF Healthcare for an information sheet.
Accessories & Spares
Spares
PART NUMBER DESCRIPTION
BB 0068 WALL M0UNTING INSTRUCTION LEAFLET
BB 0070 WALL MOUNTING HOOK
BB 0135 SUCKER
BB 0290 HAND CONTROL COMPLETE
BB 02O8 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
BB 0209 QUICK START INSTRUCTIONS
For all service or spares requirements please contact the service department at RBF Healthcare on 01702 527 401
Prices for spares available on request.
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10
Notes for Guidance
1. As a safety measure the blower unit will switch off once the correct pressure has been obtained. The cushion will no longer inflate
even if the control unit UP button is continuously depressed. In the unlikely event of this failing air will automatically bleed back
through the motor, thus ensuring over inflation does not occur. If the blower unit continues to operate for more than 20 second inflate
the cushion has fully inflated, release the UP button and consult your dealer for advice.
2. Inflation and deflation can be interrupted at any time by releasing the appropriate button on the control unit. Please note that on
inflation the UP button should be depressed until the blower unit stops automatically.
3. There is no electrical connection in or to the hand control unit. This unit is therefore safe to be operated by either useror attendant
with wet hands. The blower unit, however is connected to the mains electricity and should not be handled with wet hand unless
disconnected from the electricity supply.
4. In the event of an electricity power failure the unit will NOT operate. Should a power failure occur during use, assistancemay be
required when leaving the bath.
5. Should the cushion slide even if the suckers and bath surface appear to be clean and dry please contact your supplier for advice.
6. An alternative method of placing the cushion in the bath for those having difficulty bending is to inflate the cushion fully outside of
the bath. Position the cushion square in the bath in line with a flat surface. Deflate the cushion sufficiently so that all 4 s uckers make
contact with the bottom flat part of the bath. Press down on the semi deflated cushion checking that all four suckers are attached by
gently pulling on the cushion.
UK RBF Bath buddy instruction 16pp 21/9/07 09:07 Page 11

11
Max 560 mm (22”)
Min. 460 mm (18”)
Standard Cushion is
recommended for
bath depths of
between
340mm - 415mm
13”-16”
Appendix A
Recommended Bath Sizes
The Bath-Buddy lift is suitable for most baths. As a guide to whether a tall or standard cushion is
required, please refer to the diagram below. If a bath falls outside of the guidelines below please
contact your dealer or manufacturer for advice.
Both Standard & Tall Cushions
are suitable for bath widths of
460mm to 560mm
(18” to 22”)
Tall Cushion is
recommended for
bath depths of
between
415mm - 490mm
(16” - 19”)
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12
Appendix B
Grab Rail Fitting Instructions
The following should act as a guide to positioning the grab rail when used with the Bath-Buddy.
A grab rail should only be fitted by a qualified workman in accordance with the manufacturers specifications.
All dimensions are approximate and are for reference only.
The grab rail should always be fitted to suit the individual needs of the user.
A
B
Fitting Zone
Fitting Zone
POSITION A from 300 to 900 mm (13 to 35 inches) from back edge of bath.
POSITION B from 100 to 600mm (4 to 24 inches) from the top edge of bath.
Grab Rail
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13
Cautionary Notes
1. Temperatures higher than 50°C (122°F) will damage the cushion.
If the cushion becomes distorted and the distorted area changes colour or appearance do not use the equipment, contact your
supplier for advice.
2. The product should be routinely serviced every two years.
3. Check the seams on the cushion regularly.
This is best carried out when drying the fully deflated cushion. The cushion for added reliability has a double seam. Should the
first seam be compromised do not use the product further, contact the supplier.
4. In the unlikely event of water entering the system indicated by air bubbles emitting from the cushion or hose, discontinue
use, contact your supplier.
5. Should the blower unit casing, cushion or hose become damaged, please discontinue, contact your supplier.
RBF Healthcare undertakes to repair or replace, free of charge, any unit that fails in normal domestic use within one year from
the date of purchase, provided the product has been kept, used and maintained in accordance with the instructions.
RBF Healthcare may make any reasonable charge to cover the return of the product where no fault is found to exist, or the faultis the result
of misuse of the product.
All the information in this instruction book, along with contact details, and other products in the RBF range, can be found on the following
RBF Website:
www.rbfhealthcare.co.uk
UK RBF Bath buddy instruction 16pp 21/9/07 09:07 Page 14

BB0208-Rev.E
UK RBF Bath buddy instruction 16pp 21/9/07 09:08 Page 16
RBF Healthcare
55 Vanguard Way, Shoeburyness
Essex SS3 9QY
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Why not visit our Website at www.rbfhealthcare.co.uk