Theatre Porter

Purpose of the Role

To provide safe, timely, and efficient portering support within the operating theatres, ensuring the smooth flow of patients, equipment, specimens, and supplies. The postholder plays a key role in maintaining theatre protocols, supporting infection prevention standards, and contributing to a safe surgical environment.

Key Responsibilities

Patient Transport & Support

• Safely transfer patients to and from theatres, recovery, wards, and other clinical areas.

• Assist with patient positioning, comfort, and dignity during transfers.

• Communicate clearly with scrub, anaesthetic and recovery team.

Theatre & Equipment Support

• Prepare theatres by moving equipment, trolleys, and supplies as required.

• Transport clinical equipment between theatres sites (FSC/FCL), recovery, and sterile services.

• Support the safe movement of gas cylinders, ensuring correct storage and handling.

• Assist with clearing down theatres before and after procedures.

Infection Prevention & Cleanliness

• Adhere to infection prevention and control standards at all times.

• Support cleaning teams by removing waste, linen, and contaminated items promptly.

• Maintain cleanliness of trolleys, wheel[1]chairs, and equipment used for patient movement.

Operational Support

• Respond promptly to theatre calls, emergencies, and urgent requests.

• Assist with stock movement, including sterile instrument trays and consumables.

• Report equipment faults or safety concerns immediately.

Specimen Handling

• Transport specimens (including urgent and time‑critical samples) in line with 

• GCSE Math’s and English (or equivalent)                     

• Experience in a healthcare or portering environment

• Understanding of manual handling and safe patient movement

• Strong communication and teamwork skills

• Basic Life Support (BLS)

• Knowledge of medical gases, equipment storage, and stock rotation

• Ability to use hospital IT systems

Physical Requirements

• Ability to undertake frequent moderate to heavy physical activity.

• Ability to stand, walk, push, and pull equipment for extended periods.

• Fit to perform manual handling tasks safely.