LeadingAge Supports Rule Change for Teens Operating Patient Lifts

Posted on November 28, 2018 by Jonathan Lips

LeadingAge has filed comments in support of the U.S. Department of Labor's proposal to eliminate restrictions on the operation of patient lifts by nursing home employees under the age of 18. 

If finalized, the rule will remove the operation of power-driven patient lifts from the list of activities that the Department of Labor prohibits for 16 and 17-year old workers. Many states permit individuals under the age of 18 to become certified and work as certified nursing assistants (CNAs). Given the serious shortage of people to fill CNA positions, this restriction has made staffing an even greater challenge.  

LeadingAge pointed out that the present rule was intended to protect young workers from injuries resulting from the operation of cranes, forklifts and other heavy machinery in industrial settings. In nursing homes and other healthcare settings, patient lifts help prevent injuries that occur when workers lift patients manually. 

Care centers and senior living are an important source of employment for young workers. This rule change could help provide the entry for many people into a valued and rewarding career in long term services and supports.