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Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Brakes not holding, caster not locking/unlocking, or lift moving unintentionally due to debris, wear, or mechanical issues.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Remove the lift from active patient use before troubleshooting.
- Expected: Patient safely transferred to another device.
- Why it matters: Uncontrolled movement creates a high fall risk during transfers.
Verify the Reported Issue
- Engage and disengage each caster brake individually. Attempt to move the lift.
- Expected: Brakes should firmly hold when engaged and release fully when disengaged.
- Why it matters: Confirms whether the issue is isolated to one caster or system-wide.
Inspect for Debris Around Casters
- Check wheels and brake mechanisms for hair, dirt, tape, or buildup.
- Expected: Casters rotate freely and brake components are clear.
- Why it matters: Debris is a common cause of incomplete brake engagement or sticking.
- If debris is found → remove and retest.
Check Brake Pedal/Lever Function
- Operate the brake pedal or lever and observe movement of the locking mechanism.
- Expected: Smooth engagement/disengagement with full travel.
- Why it matters: Limited travel may prevent proper locking of the wheel.
Inspect Caster Condition
- Check for worn wheels, flat spots, cracks, or damaged locking tabs.
- Expected: Wheels are intact and brake surfaces are not excessively worn.
- Why it matters: Worn components reduce friction and prevent effective braking.
- If damage is found → caster replacement required.
Verify Floor Surface Conditions
- Test the lift on a clean, dry, level surface.
- Expected: Brakes hold effectively on proper flooring.
- Why it matters: Wet or uneven floors can mimic brake failure.
Check Mounting and Stability of Casters
- Inspect caster mounting points for looseness or misalignment.
- Expected: Casters are secure and aligned properly with the base.
- Why it matters: Loose casters can prevent full brake engagement and cause instability.
- If loose → tighten hardware and retest.
Test All Casters Together
- Engage all brakes and attempt to move the lift.
- Expected: Lift remains stationary with no rolling or shifting.
- Why it matters: Ensures system-wide stability during patient transfers.
If the Problem Persists
If all external causes have been ruled out and brakes still fail to hold or function properly, the issue is likely due to internal mechanical wear within the caster assembly.
Remove the device from service, label it Out of Service, and send for repair or caster replacement.
Knowing when to stop prevents unsafe equipment from remaining in use.
Clinical Use Tip
Never troubleshoot brake or caster issues with a patient on the device. Always transfer the patient first to eliminate fall risk.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Nursing reported lift rolling even with brakes engaged."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Right rear caster brake worn and not fully engaging wheel."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Replaced faulty caster and verified proper brake function."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Individual caster brake function tested
- Debris removed from wheels
- Floor surface conditions checked
- Caster mounting hardware inspected
- Brake pedal movement observed
- Final device status (operational or removed from service)
Final Thought
Brake and caster issues directly impact patient safety and should never be minimized. Start with simple mechanical checks, rule out environmental factors, and escalate appropriately. Proper documentation ensures accountability and repeat issue tracking.
That is successful troubleshooting.