On this page
Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Base legs not spreading or closing, preventing proper positioning due to power, actuator, control, or obstruction-related issues.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Remove the lift from active patient use before troubleshooting.
- Expected: Patient safely transferred to another lift or surface.
Verify the Reported Issue
- Attempt to open and close the base legs using the hand control.
- Expected: No movement, slow movement, or uneven leg operation.
- Why it matters: Confirms true base actuator issue vs operator misuse.
Check Emergency Stop (E-Stop)
- Ensure the E-stop button is not engaged. Reset if needed.
- Expected: Full system power restored and controls responsive.
- Why it matters: E-stop disables all powered movements, including base legs.
- If legs respond → stop troubleshooting.
Verify Battery Charge and Seating
- Check battery level and ensure it is fully seated. Swap with a known good battery if available.
- Expected: Adequate charge and stable power.
- Why it matters: Base leg actuator requires sufficient power; low voltage can prevent movement.
- If function returns → stop troubleshooting.
Inspect Hand Control Operation
- Test other functions (lift up/down, tilt, etc.) using the same handset.
- Expected: Other functions operate normally or also fail.
- Why it matters: Determines if the issue is isolated to base control or overall handset failure.
- If all functions fail → suspect handset or control interface
- If only base fails → continue troubleshooting
Inspect Hand Control Cable and Connection
- Check for loose connection at the control port and inspect cable for damage or pinching.
- Expected: Secure connection with no visible damage.
- Why it matters: Damaged or loose wiring can interrupt specific control signals.
- If corrected → stop troubleshooting.
Check for Physical Obstructions
- Inspect the base legs and surrounding area for debris, objects, or mechanical interference.
- Manually attempt slight movement (without forcing).
- Expected: Legs move freely with no binding or obstruction.
- Why it matters: External blockage is a common and easily missed cause.
- If obstruction removed and function returns → stop troubleshooting.
Inspect Base Mechanism for Binding or Damage
- Look for bent components, misalignment, or signs of stress at pivot points.
- Expected: Smooth alignment with no visible damage.
- Why it matters: Mechanical binding can prevent actuator movement even if powered.
Listen for Actuator Operation
- Operate the base control and listen for motor/actuator noise.
- Expected: Audible motor sound during operation.
- Motor runs but no movement → possible mechanical failure or linkage issue
- No motor sound → possible actuator, wiring, or control board issue
If the Problem Persists
If all external causes have been ruled out, the issue is likely internal to the base actuator, wiring harness, or control system.
Remove the device from service, label it Out of Service, and send for repair or bench evaluation.
Knowing when to stop prevents unnecessary risk and equipment damage.
Clinical Use Tip
Never troubleshoot base movement with a patient in the lift. Always transfer the patient first to ensure safety and prevent instability.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Base legs would not open or close during patient transfer."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"No actuator response; ruled out battery, handset, and obstruction—suspected base actuator failure."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Removed lift from service and sent to biomed shop for actuator evaluation and repair."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Battery tested/swapped
- E-stop status confirmed
- Handset functions tested
- Obstruction check performed
- Actuator noise present or absent
- Visible mechanical damage noted
- Final device status (in service or removed)
Final Thought
Start with simple external checks—power, controls, and obstructions—before suspecting internal failure. Safe removal from service and clear documentation are just as important as the fix itself.
That is successful troubleshooting.