A belt (12) or strap (20) for use with medical devices such as patient supports, hoists, harnesses, slings, transfer sheets and so on has a core (22) of fibrous material provided as a webbing and a coating of biocompatible sealant material, preferably thermoplastic polyurethane, covering the fibrous core. The ends of the strap (20) are sealed with a sealing strip (32) preferably of the same material as the coating (24), which is pressed onto the exposed ends and heat sealed to the coating layers (24). The end strips (32) ensure complete sealing of the strap (20) and yet retain the thickness and flexibility of the strap.
