A bed assembly (10) includes a wheeled base (12), a sub-frame (16) andmattress support frame (18). The sub-frame (16) supports a plurality ofelectrically operated actuators which provide for raising and lowering of thebed (10). The bed can be lowered to a first low position in which the bedframe (18) is around 38 to 45 centimetres above floor height and to a lowerposition in which the frame (18) is around 30 centimetres above floor height.The bed is lowered to the first height upon receipt of a first command inputand can only be lowered below that first height upon receipt of a secondcontrol input distinct from the first control input. Preferably, the bed islowered at a slower speed from the first low height to its lowermost position.
