New Hoist (08/07)
We have just spent £1200 on a new electric hoist to help some of our less mobile clients aboard. At the start of last year we were using a block and tackle which was attached to a strong point on the boom. The new hoist is battery operated and portable beings clipped into position when required. To lift a wheel chair user aboard we swing the boom over the pontoon, a sling is then slipped under the user and attached to the sides of the hoist. In one smooth movement the passenger is raised over the guard rail and down into the cockpit. We generally leave wheel chairs safely ashore.
The crew are also able to take people below deck for meals and toilet facilities using the same method.