Manual Handling
Manual Handling is any activity which involves lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, carrying, moving, holding or restraining. It also includes repetitive movements or sustained and awkward postures.
Kelly Services has identified manual handling as the cause of the majority of the injuries sustained by our employees while in the workplace. Manual Handling risks can be obvious, such as, lifting or carrying large loads.
In other instances, the manual handling risks are not as obvious, eg repetitive movements or sitting in the one position for a long period of time. Some manual handling risks can be overshadowed by the hazardous substances handled in a role. It is important that employees are aware of all the risks associated with their role and how to avoid these risks so injury can be prevented.
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LOOK AT |
LOOK FOR |
THE PROBLEM |
THE SOLUTION |
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Repetitive actions and movements
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Bending forward, sideways or twisting. Discomfort or pain. Sudden jerky movements. Repetitive movements eg bending, twisting, overarching. |
Increased stress and strain to spine, back, muscles and limbs. |
Perform all movements in a controlled, smooth, balanced manner. Minimise repetitive movements by alternating roles or tasks. |
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Characteristics of a load |
Loads that are difficult to carry eg awkward shape, slippery surface, obscure vision. Unpredictable or animate objects eg unstable loads. Hot or cold objects that can’t be held close to the body. |
Stumbling with load can cause you to fall over or increased strain to back muscles. This may injure others. Holding a load away from the body can cause increased strain to back muscles and limbs. |
If possible, hold loads close to the body. Aprons may assist. Break up loads into smaller loads so that they are compact, rigid and predictable. Where appropriate, use mechanical aids, straps or trolleys. Practice team lifting. Use PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) provided eg gloves for objects that are hot, cold or slippery. Be wary of gloves reducing dexterity and causing items to slip. |
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Work Environment |
Slippery or uneven floors and rough surfaces. Cluttered, confined spaces. Objects blocking any pathways or exits. Vibrating machinery Loud noises Hot and cold environments. |
Slips and falls. Damage to back or limbs. Decreased concentration Issues with hearing. |
Provide even, slip resistant flooring. Provide an uncluttered, well lit workplace. Clear doorways, paths and exits from objects. Provide vibration free machinery or limit employee’s exposure to vibration. Provide and ensure employees where PPE eg earmuffs to prevent damage to hearing. |
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Workplace / Workstation Layout |
Reaching above shoulder height or below mid height. Positioning of tools, controls, equipment out of reaching distance. Confined working positions or cramped work spaces. Objects that limit feet and leg movement. |
Affects the posture and techniques and restricts movements. This causes muscle cramps and for muscles to tire quickly. Increases stress to muscles, back and spine. Unbalanced load to the body. |
Carry the majority of work at waist level. Place objects on the workstation so they are easily reached. Position tools, controls, equipment and furniture so that work can be done at a comfortable, upright position. Hold loads closely to the body. |
