Manual Handling Toolbox

Manual Handling Operations

Definition:        “Any transporting or supporting of a load (including lifting, putting down, pushing, pulling, carrying or moving) by hand or by bodily force.”

Intro:                 Almost 25% of all injuries at work are accidents related to Manual Handling Operations.

Why:                Bad manual handling techniques can cause catastrophic and long-term injuries.

Outline:           This talk will cover considerations and good techniques for manual handling.

Considerations When Manual Handling

1. Where possible the use of mechanical lifting devices is to be preferred over manually handling loads.
2. Know your capabilities, only tackle jobs you can safely handle, and if in doubt ask for assistance.
3. Understand personal attributes/limitations – match the person to the task.
4. Is your route clear of debris and obstacles, is there sufficient light and can you safely carry the distance?
5. Assess the weight of the load prior to lifting. Is it hot/cold, does it have sharp edges or an uneven centre of gravity?
6. Do you require personal protective equipment? (Gloves/Gauntlets/Boots)? Does the PPE help or impede the task?

Q:        What personal protective equipment may be required?

Q:        What checks would you conduct prior to lifting?

1. What should be your first consideration before undertaking a manual handling task?

Good Handling Technique

1. Stand reasonably close to the load, feet shoulder width apart, one foot slightly forward pointing in the direction you are going.
2. Bend your knees and keep the back straight.
3. Take a firm and secure grip.
4. Breath in before lifting, this helps to support the spine.
5. Lift slowly and smoothly using the legs and maintain a straight back.
6. Keep the load close to the body.
7. Avoid sharp, sudden movements or twisting, when carrying.
8. Do not carry a load that obscures your vision.
9. When lifting from the floor to above shoulder height, do it in two movements.
10. When two or more people lift a load, plan the lift first then one person is to co-ordinate the lift.

Q:        Describe how to lift an object safely.

Q:        What checks are to be carried out before moving off with a load?

Q:        What should you do to support the spine?

Q:        Name to hazards when lifting a load.