COUNCIL-run homes for the elderly are using equipment which could put frail old people at risk, according to a Glasgow councillor.

Carntyne Councillor Pat Chalmers raised her concerns this week in a letter to members of the city council's social care committee.

She says she is unhappy about the use of equipment called the Oxford Hoist, used for lifting some patients in and out of their beds.

Her letter states: "It is based on the canvass harness used to move cattle into abattoirs.

"It is a canvass sling on a metal frame and frail residents, many with osteoporosis, are expected to be put into this sling. It is a highly dangerous piece of equipment as it can, in those with osteoporosis, create spinal fractures."

Ms Chalmers, whose mother is in a council care home, praised staff working with the elderly but insisted other equipment is made available.

She added: "I am trying to find out why other equipment is not being used as standard."

A council spokesman denied patients were being put at risk by use of hoists. He said: "We are aware of no evidence that the use of hoists causes the problems described."