Ferno to supply trolleys to the Scottish Ambulance Service

Ferno, a world leading manufacturer of emergency medical equipment, has been named a key supplier of ambulance trolleys to the Scottish Ambulance Service NHS Trust - one of the biggest in the UK.

The contract win follows the recent announcement that the Scottish Ambulance Service is investing £34.3 million over the next four years to replace more than 570 vehicles.

This will be made up of 326 new accident and emergency vehicles - comprising of traditional ambulances and paramedic response units - 98 patient transport vehicles and 151 support vehicles. Over time Ferno will supply the new vehicles with its Pegasus Stretcher Trolleys and the new Harrier LT LBS Bariatric Trolleys.

Ferno Managing Director Jon Ellis said: "This is a very significant contract for Ferno and underscores both the quality of our products and the deep understanding we have of the challenges faced by a modern ambulance service to deliver equipment which best meet their needs.

"It is significant that our new Harrier LT LBS Bariatric Trolley is being adopted by the Scottish Ambulance Service as we have witnessed a significant rise in demand for bariatric medical equipment as emergency services and hospitals struggle to manage with the UK's growing obesity problem."

Ferno has developed a range of specialist equipment including ambulance trolleys, wheel chairs, evacuation chairs and hospital trolleys specifically designed for bariatric patients. The term "bariatric" refers to the population of obese patients who require specialist medical intervention and equipment.

Mr Ellis said: "The larger bariatric equipment we have designed and developed allows a smooth, dignified approach to dealing with larger patients and we have had really positive feedback from patients and medical professionals."

The Harrier LT LBS Bariatric Trolley is the only electro-hydraulic trolley in the UK pre-hospital market that will lift a patient of 350kg. This minimises the effort needed for patient transport while protecting medical staff from any potential ergonomic problems.

The Pegasus Stretcher Trolley is suitable for use on ramped or tail-lift vehicles, fully compliant with the 'lock and load' two-part vehicle locking system, and has standard drop down foot end for use with PTS vehicles, making it one of the most versatile patient transfer trolleys on the market.

Ferno, which has been trading for over 40 years, is recognised as the global leader in the manufacture and distribution of emergency patient-handling equipment and exports to more than 153 countries worldwide.