Background
Manual handling injuries are part of a wider group of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). The term ‘musculoskeletal disorders’ covers any injury, damage or disorder of the joints or other tissues in the upper/lower limbs or the back. Some MSDs are caused by work activities but some are caused by activities outside work or may be the result of illnesses or diseases unrelated to work.
It is estimated that work-related MSDs, including those caused by manual handling, account for around 40% of all work-related ill health.
Regulations apply to manual handling activities at work that involve the transporting or supporting of loads, including lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, carrying or moving loads.
Do not lift more than you can safely push or carry. Carefully assess each load before you lift it, and if you consider it beyond your capability ask for advice or assistance. Wherever possible you should utilise mechanical aids to move or carry heavy loads.
The diagram below shows the recommended maximum weights when standing.
Stop and think
How heavy is the load, where are you going to take it, are appropriate handling aids available and will assistance be required?
Position the feet
Stand close to the load with your feet apart and one leg slightly forward to maintain balance.
Adopt a good posture
Bend your legs and knees then raise your head; do not stoop over the load.
Get a firm grip
Where possible keep the load as close to the body as possible. Use handles or devices already fitted to the load if available. Use hand protection if needed.
Move the feet
Slowly stand lifting the load letting your legs do the lifting. Once upright do not jerk the load whilst carrying it. Avoid twisting or bending whilst carrying the load.
Put down and adjust
Slowly lower the load using the same principle and then adjust the position. Do not try and position the load whilst lowering it.
Manual Handling TILE Assessment – In the near future plans are in place to develop a manual handling tool to simplify the process of risk assessment.
Follow the following videos provide a good understanding on Manual Handling.