Bed poles / bed sticks

What is bed pole?

A bed pole is a device designed to assist consumers with limited mobility to maintain comfort and independence in bed.  It is usually a metal frame that is fitted under the mattress and has one or two vertical poles to assist the user with movement in and out of bed.

Nature of the Hazard

An incorrectly installed bed pole can result in a significant gap between the pole and the mattress.  A person who falls out of bed can get their head or neck trapped in the gap which can cause injury and led to death.  Consumers and carers should ensure that bed poles are installed correctly to make sure there is no gap between the pole and the mattress.

It is also recommended that bed poles should not be used if a person:

§   has a history of falling from bed; or

§   suffers from a cognitive impairment such as dementia; and

§   has no access to immediate assistance.