8.1.2 Requirements
Before putting the bed into service or the bed is occupied by a new patient, the user must check
that:
x The bed has been cleaned and disinfected
x The castor brakes are applied
x No obstacles such as bedside lockers, supply rails or chairs will impede bed adjustments
x All adjustments work correctly and have been properly tested
x To carry out the visual inspection and functional checks, use the checklist entitled Inspection by
the User » 114 in the appendix.
8.1.2.1 Electric Beds
A hospital bed incorporating electric actuators can only be taken into service if the following condi-
tions are met:
x The mains voltage from the socket must be the same as the rating shown on the type-plate on
the bed
x The mains cable is connected and routed in such a way that it cannot be damaged
x The mains cable, drive cables and handset cable cannot be damaged by moving parts of the
bed
x If the bed is equipped with rechargeable lead-acid batteries, it is constantly connected to the
mains supply. This is the only way to ensure that the batteries are fully charged and are availa-
ble in case of an emergency.