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Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Table not raising/lowering, uneven movement, or intermittent lift issues caused by power, controls, or external mechanical restrictions.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Remove the table from active patient use before troubleshooting.
- Expected: Patient safely relocated to another table.
- Why it matters: Unexpected movement or failure can cause patient injury.
Verify the Reported Issue
- Operate the hi-lo function using the hand control and/or foot control. Observe for no movement, uneven lifting, or hesitation.
- Expected: Clear identification of failure type (no movement vs uneven/intermittent).
- Why it matters: Helps determine if the issue is control-related, power-related, or mechanical.
Check Power Source (Outlet)
- Confirm the table is plugged into a known working outlet. Test outlet with another device.
- Expected: Reliable power present.
- Why it matters: Low or inconsistent power can cause actuator failure symptoms.
- If no power → restore power and retest
Inspect Power Cord and Connection
- Check the power cord for cuts, fraying, or loose connections at both the wall and table base.
- Expected: Cord intact and securely connected.
- Why it matters: Intermittent power can result in uneven or partial actuator movement.
- If damaged → remove from service and replace cord
Test Hand/Foot Control Functionality
- Attempt operation using all available controls. Inspect for stuck buttons or unresponsive inputs.
- Expected: Controls respond consistently.
- Why it matters: A faulty control can mimic actuator failure.
- If one control fails but another works → replace faulty control
Check for Obstructions or Binding
- Inspect under and around the table base and lift mechanism for debris, cables, or physical obstruction.
- Expected: Clear movement path.
- Why it matters: Physical resistance can cause uneven lifting or motor strain.
- If obstruction found → remove and retest
Evaluate Table Load and Weight Distribution
- Ensure the table is not overloaded and weight is evenly distributed.
- Expected: Weight within manufacturer limits and centered.
- Why it matters: Uneven loading can cause one side of the lift system to lag or stall.
- If uneven load → correct and retest
Listen and Observe During Operation
- Operate the lift while listening for abnormal sounds (grinding, clicking, or motor strain). Observe for uneven rise.
- Expected: Smooth, even motion with normal motor sound.
- Why it matters: Abnormal noise or uneven motion suggests internal actuator or linkage issues.
Inspect External Lift Components (If Accessible)
- Visually inspect accessible portions of the lift mechanism for misalignment, bent components, or loose hardware.
- Expected: Components appear aligned and secure.
- Why it matters: Mechanical misalignment can cause uneven lifting without actuator failure.
- If loose hardware → tighten if appropriate and retest
If the Problem Persists
If power, controls, load, and external mechanical causes have been ruled out, the issue is likely internal (actuator, drive system, or control circuitry).
Remove the table from service, label it Out of Service, and send for repair or bench evaluation.
Knowing when to stop prevents further damage and ensures patient safety.
Clinical Use Tip
Never troubleshoot lift or positioning issues with a patient on the table. Always transfer the patient first to prevent injury from sudden movement or collapse.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Table not raising properly and uneven during lift."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"No external power, control, or obstruction issues found; suspected internal actuator failure."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Removed from service and sent for actuator evaluation/repair."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Outlet tested and confirmed working
- Power cord condition verified
- Control responsiveness (hand/foot)
- Presence of abnormal noises
- Load conditions at time of failure
- Any visible mechanical misalignment
- Final device status (removed from service or functional)
Final Thought
Effective troubleshooting starts with simple, external checks and progresses logically. Ruling out power, controls, and mechanical interference ensures accurate diagnosis. Recognizing likely internal failure and escalating appropriately protects both the patient and the equipment while reinforcing strong documentation practices.
That is successful troubleshooting.