‘The transporting or supporting of loads by hand or by bodily force’
MANUAL HANDLING MODULE
The Manual Handling Operations Regulations define ‘manual handling’ as:
This includes:
Lifting
Putting down
Pushing & Pulling
Carrying & Moving
What are the risks?
Back injury is one of the largest single causes of long term sick leave
1/3 of accidents reported to HSE involved manual handling
Common manual handling injuries include:
Sprains and strains 69%
Lacerations 11%
Bruising 6%
Fracture 4%
Other/Superficial 10%
To Control the Risks:
A meaningful assessment must be carried out
Fit the job around the person
A meaningful assessment can only be undertaken if you have a thorough assessment of:
The type of task to be performed
The individual involved
The load to be handled
The working environment
Plan your Route:
Ensure the route is as short as possible
Make repeated trips rather than demanding ones
Ensure the route is clear of obstructions
Consider stabilising any load that may suddenly shift
Check floor surfaces for trip and fall risks
Avoid stairs, steps or sudden changes in floor level
Consider the need for precise positioning
Build in intermediate resting points if necessary
Always maintain a safe lifting posture
Individual:
Does the job require unusual strength or stature
Create a hazard to those who might reasonably be considered to be pregnant or to have a health problem
Is movement or posture restricted by PPE
Require special information or training
Load:
Hot or Cold – the temperature of the load or container can be a risk
Bulky or awkward loads can affect your posture – you should consider team lifting or lifting aids
Sharp or with sharp packaging – you should always wear appropriate PPE
Difficult to grasp or control – items are slippery or of an awkward shape
Unstable loads or with contents that should shift
Chemical risks from contents – loads that have a specific chemical risk should have a COSHH assessment
Spillage risks – where the load is capable of causing spillages
Weight Guidelines:
Lifting Techniques:
Secure grip
Proper foot position
Arms close to the body (elbows in)
Bent knees & comfortably straight back (not necessarily vertical)
Chin tucked in
Use body weight to advantage
Lead with the head
If more than one person, most experienced member of staff to take charge of process
Environment:
Make sure you have sufficient space
Have a look at the route in advance to ensure the space available is clear throughout
Maintain good levels of housekeeping
Ensure provision has been made for doors to be opened and held - ensure fire doors are immediately closed once the lift is complete
Check floors for uneven surfaces
Check and clear any spills or leaks that have occurred
Avoid manual handling on slopes
If slopes cannot be avoided, consider alternative risk reduction measures, i.e. reduced load weight
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