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1. What is Manual Handling?
Manual handling is defined as transporting or supporting a load by hand or bodily force. It often includes lifting, putting down, pushing, pulling and carrying loads by hand. The heavier the load, the more strenuous and hazardous the task is for staff. Other factors such as the frequency of movement, the distance a load is moved over, and the shape and design of the load can all influence risk levels.
3. The Risks of Moving Loads by Hand
Moving loads by hand presents the risk of injury. Injuries are often caused by the handling of heavy loads, poor posture, and repetitive, awkward movements. These can lead to various injuries, including musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), back injuries, strains and sprains, hernias and slips and trips.
Musculoskeletal disorders are one of the most common types of work-related injury. These injuries can cause significant pain, loss of mobility, and an inability to work. Injuries caused by manually moving heavy loads can also lead to long-term health issues that can negatively impact an employee's quality of life.
5. Manual Handling Risk Assessment & Techniques
When assessing manual handling tasks, the following steps should be followed:
- Avoid manually moving loads where possible
- Assess the risks associated with any handling task
- Reduce the risks as much as possible by using mechanical equipment, altering the task, or distributing the weight of the load evenly.
- Provide suitable training to employees on safe handling techniques.
Manual Handling Techniques
There are many manual handling techniques that employees can use to reduce the likelihood of injury:
- Lift with your legs, not your back
- Keep the load close to your body
- Maintain good posture
- Take breaks when necessary
7. Five Key Principles for Safely Moving Loads Manually
It is not always possible to avoid manually moving loads, but you should avoid hazardous manual handling tasks that exceed employees abilities or weight limits.
To minimise the risk of handling injuries, following these 5 key principles can help improve safety when assessing the risk of moving loads by hand.
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Plan
Check for obstacles before starting a movement and assess if the movement is feasible.
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Position
Establish good posture and keep your body stable and centred.
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Pick
Keep loads close to your body for maximum stability
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Proceed
Make the movement smooth, keeping your head and spine straight.
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Place
Slowly finish the movement in a smooth motion.
8. How to Reduce the Risk of Injury and Manual Handling Hazards
Manual handling injuries are a serious issue that can cause significant harm to employees and businesses. However, by following the principles of safe manual handling, using the correct techniques and utilising the appropriate mechanical aids, you can significantly reduce the risk of injury.
Manual Handling Solutions - Electric Tugs
Electric tugs are a type of material handling equipment designed to move heavy-wheeled loads. Allowing the effortless movement of loads, electric tugs are the ideal manual handling solution, improving safety and driving workplace efficiency. A single operator can safely move heavy loads from 50kg to over 30,000kg, without any physical effort.
