local rules for safety in manual handling operations rules for safety in manual handling operations...

Safety Services

Local Rules for Safety in

Manual Handling Operations

Last Review Date: 10 October 2012 Approved 23 June 2009

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CONTENTS

1. Introduction 2. Responsibilities of Heads of Department

3. Responsibilities of Employees

4. Duties of the Manual Handling Assessor

5. Risk Assessment

6. Role of Occupational Health

7. Strathclyde Portering Services

8. Training

References and Further Reading Appendix 1 – Risk Assessment Filter

Appendix 2 - Manual Handling Operations

Assessment Checklist – Pushing and Pulling

Appendix 3 – Manual Handling Operations

Assessment Checklist – Lifting & Carrying

Appendix 4 – Training

Appendix 5 – Summary of Factors

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LOCAL RULES FOR SAFETY IN

MANUAL HANDLING OPERATIONS

1. Introduction

Manual handling accidents account for more than a third of all accidents reported each year to the enforcing authority. The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (as amended) aim to reduce the risk of injury from manual handling which covers a wide range of activities involving the transporting or supporting of a load. This includes lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, carrying or moving. The load may be either inanimate; for example, a box or a trolley, or animate; for example, a person or an animal.

The Regulations establish a clear hierarchy of measures: a) Avoid hazardous manual handling operations so far as is reasonably practicable.

This may be done by redesigning the task to avoid moving the load or mechanising the process.

b) Make a suitable and sufficient assessment of any hazardous manual handling operations that cannot be avoided.

c) Reduce the risk of injury from those operations so far as is reasonably practicable where possible mechanical assistance should be provided; for example, a sack trolley or a hoist. Where this is not reasonably practicable, then changes to the task, the load and the work environment should be explored.

The Regulations accept no specific requirements, such as weight limit. This is a common misconception and this simple view of the problem would lead to incorrect conclusions, instead an ergonomic assessment based on a range of relevant factors is used to determine the risk of injury and the appropriate remedial actions required.

2. Responsibilities of Heads of Department

Heads of Department are ultimately responsible for the implementation of these Local Rules within their department and should be aware of their responsibilities defined in this document. The Departmental Safety Convenor will provide support as directed by the Head of Department to assist with discharging these responsibil ities. Essentially, it is necessary to eliminate, where reasonably practicable, all manual handling which involves a risk of injury to employees.

Where it is not reasonably practicable to eliminate manual handling, then the Head of Department must ensure manual handling operations have been assessed and where risk control measures are identified, they are implemented. In the majority of cases, these assessments will be carried out by the departmental manual handling assessor. It is the responsibility of the Head of Department to: Appoint a manual handling assessor(s) and ensure they receive appropriate

training (see section 8) to carry out their function as well as sufficient time to carry out the assessments.

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Ensure these assessments are reviewed on a regular basis. In the case of high risk tasks, this will be annually and every two years for low risk tasks. Otherwise, assessments will be reviewed whenever there is reason to believe the assessment is no longer valid, or there has been a significant change to the manual handling operations.

Ensure all appropriate assessments are being carried out, and where necessary, action is implemented to eliminate or reduce risk.

Identify the manual handling tasks within the department, in conjunction with the Safety Convener. This job can be delegated to a member of staff familiar with the manual handling tasks within the department.

Manual handling tasks can be divided into three categories; high, medium or low risk. The Risk Assessment Filter in Appendix 1 has been taken from the HSE’s Manual Handling Operations Regulations: Guidance on Regulations (L23) and is a useful tool for deciding if your department has high, medium or low risk tasks.

If you have low risk tasks, then you must ensure that all staff are trained. If you have high risk or medium risk tasks you must appoint an assessor, provide them with training, ensure assessments are carried out and any resulting action is implemented.

3. Responsibilities of Employees

All employees must: Take reasonable care for their own health and safety and that of others who may

be affected by their activities.

Co-operate with their employers to enable them to comply with their health and safety duties.

Use appropriate equipment provided as per information and instructions given to them in the course of their work.

Comply with the information and instruction given to them by their employer to safeguard their health and safety.

Follow appropriate systems of work laid down to promote safety during handling of loads.

4. Duties of the Manual Handling Assessor

The manual handling assessor will be responsible for undertaking all the manual handling assessments in the department. These assessments will be carried out once the assessor has attended the Manual Handling Assessors training as recommended in Section 8. It is essential that the assessor understands the risk control measures that are needed to carry out the task safely. These local rules cover general issues of manual handling, such as the simple filter assessment for low risk activities and the provision of training. The department will provide each assessor with a copy of the Manual Handling Regulations to assist them to fulfil their duties.

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The assessor will ensure assessments are read and signed by the personnel carrying out the relevant manual handling operations and that each individual has a copy of the assessment and understands the risk control measures required.

5. Risk Assessment

The Manual Handling Regulations are clear that the first step, prior to any risk assessment, is to determine if the manual handling operation can be avoided or eliminated. If, so far as is reasonably practicable, handling of the load cannot be avoided, then the assessor must consider if a full risk assessment is appropriate. Appendix 1 within these Local Rules provides guidelines to assist in determining whether a risk assessment is appropriate. It must be remembered that even where a risk assessment is not necessary after applying this filter, steps should be taken to remove all risks to as low a level as is reasonably practicable. Assessments must be available to all staff involved in the tasks and a copy must be read and signed by each person where appropriate. A review of the accident statistics for the department should also be carried out taking particular cognisance of those incidents involving manual handling. These can provide valuable indicators of risks associated with certain tasks. Where an incident has occurred which is related to a manual handling task, this activity must be fully assessed before it is carried out again. Assessments will be based on the following groups of factors: Load Task Environment Individual Other factors which may affect the task

All manual handling assessors will be trained to use this structured approach in the assessment of risk, looking at each of the above factors in turn. When looking at ways to control the risks, the different characteristics of the task will determine which of the above factors will need to be addressed to reduce or control the risk. However, we must not lose sight of the fact that all such factors must be considered when carrying out an assessment. Appendix 5 describes many of the factors around the task, load, individual and the environment which must be considered. The assessor, in completing a full detailed risk assessment with the sole purpose of reducing the risk to the individuals involved in the manual handling operation, will consider the potential to automate or mechanise the process as appropriate. Generic manual handling assessments for departmental activities can be used, so long as all types of manual handling operations have been considered and all the relevant factors are incorporated into the generic assessment. This type of approach is appropriate e.g. in the case of delivery operations where a range of loads or tasks in working environments are concerned. The assessment would therefore, assess all reasonably foreseeable operations in the work environment and individuals involved in the task.

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In the process of carrying out a risk assessment, it may be appropriate to consult the specific industry data for a particular profession; e.g. the University College Employers Association has published guidance on manual handling for libraries. The University has two risk assessment forms which follow the guidance set out in the Manual Handling Regulations; one for lifting and carrying of loads S20LC, Appendix 3; and one for pushing and pulling of loads S22PP, Appendix 4. These separate forms recognise the differences in risk relating to each task. The guidance for completing these forms is attained following attendance at the training provided by the University. Only trained assessors can utilise these forms. Low Risk Tasks There will be many manual handling tasks which are categorised as low risk due to the nature of the load, task, environment and individual factors. Such activities will generally be the same day to day and week on week; the loads are known, the tasks do not vary significantly and the activities are carried out in the same or similar working environment, e.g. handling photocopy paper or files in an office; books in libraries or moving lightweight equipment such as laptops. Low risk tasks will be easily identified by the risk assessment filter and you will not normally have to do any other forms of risk assessment. Medium to High Risk Tasks – Risk of Injury Many manual handling tasks will have an increased level of risk due to factors associated with the load (e.g. weight, bulk, inherent danger), task (e.g. frequency, duration), environment (e.g. restricted space, floor surfaces) or other factors such as personal protective equipment. These tasks can be varied and/or unfamiliar and an assessment will be needed to find ways to control or reduce the risk of injury. Such control measures may include use of trolleys or slings and mobile cranes or pallet trucks.

6. Role of Occupational Health

Where an assessment indicates a particular risk for an individual, or they highlight a new health concern which may be impacted upon by manual handling, then these individuals should be referred to Occupational Health, who can assess the tasks based on the individual’s needs. Occupational Health can get involved in a number of other issues related to manual handling. For instance: Managing the work of individuals with any existing ill health condition, where work

could have an impact on their health Assessing risks to health from work activities, including arranging occupational

hygiene services Assisting with rehabilitation following sickness, absence or injury Health surveillance Pre-employment health screening

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7. Strathclyde Portering Services

Where a department does not have any staff trained in manual handling, and there are heavy or large items which need to be moved, Strathclyde Portering Services (within Estates Management) can provide this service; this may be chargeable in some cases.

It will be necessary to complete a portering service request form or a web service request, which must be used to ensure that Portering staff have the correct information on the loads to be moved, to allow them to assess the tasks involved prior to commencing work. The types of tasks where the use of Portering Services may be required might include for example: Provision of skips for large quantities of departmental refuse and completion of

relevant duty of care documentation Removal of rubbish and equipment out with the normal collection arrangements Moving of furniture or office material.

The following link takes you to the Portering services website where you will find more information. http://www.strath.ac.uk/estates/admin/#d.en.43230

8. Training

There are currently three types of courses available from the Safety Services department relating to manual handling. a) Manual handling assessors’ course: run over two days, the manual handling

assessors learn about risk assessment, the regulations and how to carry out a risk assessment. It should be noted that assessors are not competent to train others following this course.

b) Manual handling awareness one day course: basic training and incorporates the techniques required for movements for the transport or support of a load, designed for individuals whose manual handling tasks are considered medium to high risk.

c) Manual handling half day course is designed for individuals whose manual handling activities are considered low risk.

Refer to Appendix 4 for a more detailed description of each course. Departments are at liberty to source their own training providers to provide this type of training following consultation with Safety Services.

http://www.strath.ac.uk/estates/admin/#d.en.43230

Appendix 1 – Risk Assessment Filter

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Risk Assessment Filter

1. The filter described in this Appendix is relevant to: a) Lifting and lowering; b) Carrying for short distances; c) Pushing and pulling; and d) Handling while seated. 2. It is most likely to be useful if you think that the activity to be assessed is low risk – the

filter should quickly and easily confirm (or deny) this. If using the filter determines the risk is within the guidelines, you do not normally have to do any other form of risk assessment unless you have individual employees who may be at significant risk, for example pregnant workers, young workers, those with a significant health problem or a recent manual handling injury. However, these filter guidelines only apply when the load is easy to grasp and held in a good working environment.

3. However, the filter is less likely to be used if: a) There is a strong chance the work activities to be assessed involve significant risks

from manual handling; or b) The activities are complex. The use of the filter will only be worthwhile if it is possible

to quickly (say within ten minutes) assess whether the guidelines in it are exceeded. c) In either of these cases using the filter may not save any time or effort, so it may be

better to opt immediately for the more detailed risk assessment. d) The filter is based partly on data in published scientific literature and partly on

accumulated practical experience of assessing risks from manual handling. Its guideline figures are pragmatic, tried and tested; they are not based on any precise scientific formulae. The intention is to set out an approximate boundary within which the load is unlikely to create a risk of injury sufficient to warrant a detailed assessment.

e) Application of the guidelines will provide a reasonable level of protection to around 95% of working men and women. However the guidelines should not be regarded as safe weight limits for lifting. There is no threshold below which manual handling operations may be regarded as “safe.” Even operations within the boundary mapped out by the guidelines should be avoided or made less demanding wherever it is reasonably practicable to do so.

Using the filter 4. The filter comprises of several parts, covering lifting and lowering, frequent lifting,

carrying, twisting, pushing and pulling and handling when seated. Use the guideline figures in each part to help you assess the task.

Appendix 1 – Risk Assessment Filter (cont’d)

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5. You will need to carry out a more detailed assessment if: a) Using the filter shows the activity exceeds the guideline figures; b) The activities do not come within the guidelines, eg if lifting and lowering unavoidably

takes place beyond the box zones in Figure 1 below; c) There are other considerations to take into account; d) The assumptions made in the filter are not applicable, for example when carrying the

load it is not held against the body; e) For each task the assessment cannot be done quickly. 6. Paragraphs 25-26 and Table 1 provide an aide memoire for recording the findings from

using the filter and reaching a judgement on whether or not a full assessment is required.

Lifting and Lowering Figure 1

7. Each box in the diagram contains a guideline weight for lifting and lowering in that zone. Using the diagram enables the assessor to take into account the vertical and horizontal position of the hands as they move the load, the height of the individual handler and the reach of the individual handler. As can be seen from the diagram, the guideline weights are reduced if handling is done with arms extended, or at high or low levels, as that is where injuries are most likely.

8. Observe the work activity being assessed and compare it to the diagram. First decide

which box or boxes the lifter’s hands pass through when moving the load. Then assess the maximum weight being handled. If it is less than the figure given in the box, the operation is within the guidelines.

9. If the lifter’s hands enter more than one box during the operation, then the smallest

weight figure applies. An intermediate weight can be chosen if the hands are close to a boundary between boxes.


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10. The guidelines figures for lifting and lowering assume: a) The load is easy to grasp with both hands; b) The operation takes place in reasonable working conditions; and c) The handler is in a stable body position. 11. If these assumptions are not valid, it will be necessary to make a full assessment. Frequent Lifting and Lowering 12. The basic guideline figures for lifting and lowering in Figure 1 are for relatively

infrequent operations – up to approximately 30 operations per hour or one lift every two minutes. The guideline figures will have to be reduced if the operation is repeated more often. As a rough guide:

Where operations are repeated Figures should be reduced by

Once or twice per minute 30%

Five to eight times per minute 50%

More than 12 times per minute 80%

13. Even if the above conditions are satisfied, a more detailed risk assessment should be

made where: a) The worker does not control the pace of work; b) Pauses for rest are inadequate or there is no change of activity which provides an

opportunity to use different muscles; or c) The handler must support the loads for any length of time.

Twisting Figure 2 Assessing Twist


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14. In many cases, manual handling operations will involve some twisting, i.e. moving the upper body while keeping the feet static (see Figure 2). The combination of twisting and lifting and twisting, stooping and lifting are particularly stressful on the back. Therefore where the handling involves twisting and turning then a detailed assessment should normally be made.

15. However, if the operation is: a) Relatively infrequent (up to approximately 30 operations per hour or one lift every two

minutes); and b) There are no other posture problems c) Then the guideline figures in the relevant part of this filter can be used, but with a

suitable reduction according to the amount the handler twists to the side during the operation. As a rough guide:

If handler twists through (from front)

Guideline figures (Figure 2) should be reduced by

45o 10%

90 o 20%

16. Where the handling involves turning, i.e. moving in another direction as the lift is in

progress and twisting, then a detailed assessment should normally be made. Guidelines for Carrying 17. The guideline figures for lifting and lowering (Figure 1) apply to carrying operations

where the load is: a) Held against the body; b) Carried no further than about 10 m without resting. 18. Where the load can be carried securely on the shoulder without first having to be lifted

(as, for example when unloading sacks from a lorry) the guideline figures can be applied to carrying distances in excess of 10m.

19. A more detailed assessment should be made for all carrying operations if: a) The load is carried over longer distances without resting; or b) The hands are below knuckle or elbow height.


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Guidelines for Pushing and Pulling 20. For pushing and pulling operations (whether the load is slid, rolled or supported on

wheels) the guideline figures assume the force is applied with the hands, between knuckle and shoulder height. It is also assumed that the distance involved is no more than about 20 m. If these assumptions are not met, a more detailed risk assessment is required (see the push/pull risk assessment in Appendix 2).

Men Women

Guideline figure for stopping or starting a load

20 kg (ie about 200 newtons)


Guideline figure for keeping the load in motion



21. As a rough guide the amount of force that needs to be applied to move a load over a

flat, level surface using a well-maintained handling aid is at least 2% of the load weight. For example, if the load is 400 kg, then the force needed to move the load is 8kg. The force needed will be larger, perhaps a lot larger, if conditions are not perfect (eg wheels not in the right position or a device that is poorly maintained). Moving an object over soft or uneven surfaces also requires higher forces. On an uneven surface, the force needed to start the load moving could increase to 10% of the load weight, although this might be offset to some extent by using larger wheels. Pushing and pulling forces will also be increased if workers have to negotiate a slope or ramp. Even when the guideline figures in paragraph 23 are met, a detailed risk assessment will be necessary if risk factors such as uneven floors, confined spaces, or trapping hazards are present.

22. There is no specific limit to the distance over which the load is pushed or pulled as

long as there are adequate opportunities for rest or recovery. Refer to the push/pull risk assessment in Appendix 2 if you are unsure and carry out a detailed risk assessment.

Guidelines for Handling While Seated

Figure 3 Handling while seated


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23. The basic guideline figures for handling operations carried out while seated, shown in Figure 3 above are:

Men Women

5 kg 3 kg

24. The guidelines only apply when the hands are within the box zone indicated. If handling beyond the box zone is unavoidable, a more detailed assessment should be made.

Recording Findings and Reaching a Decision 25. For each task, use the filter to assess each of the activities involved (some tasks may

only involve one activity, e.g. lifting and lowering, while others may involve several). Table 1 can be used to record the results; this is not a legal requirement but may be useful if problems later on are associated with the task.

26. Identify if each activity being performed comes within the guidelines and if there are

other considerations to take into account, it may be helpful to make a note of these. Then make a final judgement of whether the task needs a full risk assessment. Remember you should be able to do this quickly – if not then a full risk assessment is required (See Appendices 2 and 3).

Table 1 Application of Guidelines

Task: ……………………………………………………………………………………………

Activity For each activity, does the task fall outside the guidelines?

Y/N

Are there any other considerations which indicate a problem?

Y/N Indicate what the

problem is, if desired.)

Is a more detailed assessment required?

Y/N

Lifting and lowering

Carrying

Pushing and pulling

Handling while seated


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Limitations of the Filter 27. Remember: The use of these guidelines does not affect the employer’s duty to avoid or

reduce the risk of injury where this is reasonably practicable. The guideline figures, therefore, should not be regarded as weight limits or approved figures for safe lifting. They are an aid to highlight where detailed risk assessments are most needed. Where doubt remains, a more detailed risk assessment should always be made.

28. The employer’s primary duty is to avoid operations which involve a risk of injury or,

where it is not practicable to do so, to assess each such operation and reduce the risk of injury to the lowest level reasonably practicable. As the probability of injury rises, the employer must scrutinise the operation increasingly closely with a view to a proper assessment and the reduction of the risk of injury to the lowest level reasonably practicable. Even for a minority of fit, well trained individuals working under favourable conditions, operations which exceed the guideline figures by more than a factor of about two may represent a serious risk of injury.

Appendix 2 Manual Handling Operations – Assessment Checklist – Pushing and Pulling S22PP

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Manual Handling Operations – Assessment Checklist – Pushing and Pulling This assessment must be carried out by a trained manual handling assessor. Section A – Preliminary

Task name:

Task description:

Load weight:

Is an assessment needed? (An assessment will be

needed if there is a potential risk of injury, e.g. if the

task falls outside the guidelines in Appendix 1 in

Local Rule for Safety in Manual Handling Operations)

Yes No Frequency of lift:

Carry distances (if applicable):

Are other manual handling tasks carried out by these operators?

Assessment discussed with employees/safety representatives:

If “Yes” continue. If “No” the assessment need go no further.

Operations covered by this assessment (detailed description):

Diagrams (other information including existing control measures):

Locations:

Personnel involved:

Date of assessment:

Overall assessment of the risk injury Low * Medium* High*

Make your overall assessment after you have completed Section B. *Tick as appropriate

Appendix 2 Manual Handling Operations – Assessment Checklist – Pushing and Pulling (Cont’d) S22PP

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Section B: Pushing and pulling – more detailed assessment, where necessary

Questions to consider: If yes, tick appropriate

level of risk

Problems occurring from the

task (make rough notes in this

column in preparation for the

possible remedial action to be

taken).

Possible remedial action e.g.

changes that need to be made to the

task, load, working environment etc.

Who needs to be involved in

implementing the changes?

Yes (Y)

or

No (N)

Low

Med

High

Do the tasks involve:

High initial forces to get the load moving?

High forces to keep the load in motion?

Sudden movements to start, stop or

manoeuvre the load?

Twisting/manoeuvring of the load into

position or around obstacles?

One-handed operations?

The hands below the waist or above

shoulder height?

Movement at high speed?

Movement over long distances?

Repetitive pushing/pulling?

The load or object to be moved:

Does it lack good handholds?

Is it unstable/unpredictable?

Is vision over/around restricted?


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level of risk





taken).

Possible remedial action e.g. changes

that need to be made to the task, load,

working environment etc. Who needs

to be involved in implementing the

changes?

If on wheels/castors, are they:

Unsuitable for the type of load?

Unsuitable for the floor surface/work

environment?

Difficult to steer?

Easily damaged or defective?

Without brakes or difficult to stop?

With brakes, but the brakes are

poor/ineffective?

Without a planned inspection and

maintenance regime based on a frequency

that keeps them in working order?

Consider the working environment – are

there:

Constraints on body posture/positioning?

Confined spaces/narrow doorways?

Surfaces or edges to cause

cuts/abrasions/burns to hands or body?

Rutted/damaged/slippery floors?

Ramps/slopes/uneven surfaces?

Trapping or tripping hazards?


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level of risk





taken).

Possible remedial action e.g. changes

that need to be made to the task, load,

working environment etc. Who needs

to be involved in implementing the

changes?

Poor lighting conditions?

Hot/cold/humid conditions?

Strong air movements

Consider individual capability – does the

job:

Require unusual capability?

Hazard those with a health problem or a

physical or learning disability?

Hazard those who are pregnant?

Call for special information/training?


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Questions to consider:

Yes

No

Problems occurring from the task

(make rough notes in this column in

preparation for the possible remedial

action to be taken).

Possible remedial action e.g. changes that need

to be made to the task, load, working

environment etc. Who needs to be involved in

implementing the changes?

Other factors to consider – Equipment:

Is movement or posture hindered by clothing

or personal protective equipment?

Is there an absence of the correct/suitable

PPE being worn?

Are trolleys/carts/floor surfaces poorly

maintained/cleaned/repaired?

Work organisation (psychosocial factors):

Do workers feel that there has been a lack

of consideration given to the planning and

scheduling of tasks/rest breaks?

Do workers feel that there is poor

communication between users of equipment

and others (managers, purchasers, etc)?

Are there sudden changes in workload, or

seasonal changes in volume without

mechanisms for dealing with the change?

Do workers feel they have not been given

enough training and information to carry out

the task successfully?


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Section C: Remedial action to be taken

Remedial steps that should be taken, in order of priority: Person responsible for implementing controls

Target

implementation

date

Completed

Y/N

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

Date by which actions should be completed:

Date for review of assessment:

Assessor’s name:

Signature:

TAKE ACTION . . . AND CHECK THAT IT HAS THE DESIRED EFFECT

Appendix 3 Manual Handling Operations – Assessment Checklist – Lifting and Carrying S22LC

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Manual Handling Operations – Assessment Checklist – Lifting and Carrying This assessment must be carried out by a trained assessor

Section A – Preliminary Department:

Task name:

Task description:

Load weight:

Is an assessment needed? (An assessment will be

needed if there is a potential risk of injury, e.g. if the

task falls outside the guidelines in Appendix 1 in

Local Rule for Safety in Manual Handling Operations)

Yes No Frequency of lift:

Carry distances (if applicable):

Are other manual handling tasks carried out by these operators?

Assessment discussed with employees/safety representatives:

If “Yes” to last question continue. If “No” the assessment need go no further.

Operations covered by this assessment (detailed description):

Diagrams (other information including existing control measures):

Locations:

Personnel involved:

Date of assessment:

Overall assessment of the risk injury (Tick as appropriate) Low Medium High

Make your overall assessment after you have completed Section B. * Tick as appropriate

Appendix 3 Manual Handling Operations – Assessment Checklist – Lifting and Carrying (Cont’d) S22LC

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Section B1: Lifting and Carrying – more detailed assessment, where necessary

Questions to consider: If Yes, tick appropriate level of risk Problems occurring from the task




Possible remedial action

(e.g. changes that need to be made to the

task, load, working environment etc. and

who needs to be involved in implementing

the changes?)

Yes √

No X

Low

Med

High

Do the tasks involve:

Holding loads away from trunk?

Twisting?

Stooping?

Reaching upwards?

Large vertical movement?

Long carrying distances?

Strenuous pushing or pulling?

Unpredictable movement of loads?

Repetitive handling?

Insufficient rest or recovery?

A work rate imposed by a process?

Are the loads?

Heavy?

Bulky/unwieldy?

Difficult to grasp?

Unstable/unpredictable

Intrinsically harmful (e.g.

sharp/hot)?


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Questions to consider: If Yes, tick appropriate level of risk Problems occurring from the task





(e.g. changes that need to be made to the

task, load, working environment etc. and

who needs to be involved in implementing

the changes?)

Yes √

No X

Low

Med

High

Consider the working environment

– are there:

Constraints on posture?

Poor floors?

Variations in levels?

Hot/cold/humid conditions?

Strong air movements?

Poor lighting conditions?

Consider individual capability –

does the job:

Require unusual capability?

Pose a risk to those with a health

problem or a physical or learning

difficulty?

Pose a risk to those who are

pregnant?

Call for special information/training?


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Questions to consider:

Yes

No

Problems occurring from the task

(make rough notes in this column in preparation for

the possible remedial action to be taken).


(e.g. changes that need to be made to the task, load,

working environment etc. and who needs to be

involved in implementing the changes?)

Other factors to consider:

Protective clothing

Is movement or posture hindered by

clothing or personal protective

equipment?

Is there an absence of the

correct/suitable PPE being worn?

Work organisation (psychosocial

factors)

Do workers feel that there has been a

lack of consideration given to the

planning and scheduling of tasks/rest

breaks?

Do workers feel that there any ways

to improve communication between

managers and employees (e.g. being

involved in risk assessments or

decisions on changes in workstation

design ?)

Are there sudden changes in

workload, or seasonal changes in

volume without mechanisms for

dealing with the change?

Do workers feel they have been given

enough training and information to

carry out the task successfully?


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Section C: Remedial action to be taken

Remedial steps that should be taken, in order of priority: Person responsible for implementing controls Target

implementation

date

Dated and signed

on completion

by person

responsible

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

Date for review of assessment:

Assessor’s name:

Assessor’s signature:

TAKE ACTION . . . AND CHECK THAT IT HAS THE DESIRED EFFECT

Appendix 4 – Training

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Manual Handling Assessors Course The training provided by the University aims to achieve the following:

Consolidate and extend the existing knowledge of manual handling and

ergonomics;

Provide participants with knowledge and practical experience to independently

conduct manual handling risk assessments;

Provide participants with a framework for documenting and recording manual

handling risk assessments;

Promote a critical and analytical approach to minimising or avoiding manual

handling and proposing solutions and

Give experience of risk assessments in a variety of work place settings.

There is an assessment at the end of this two day workshop to ensure that the manual handling assessors have taken on board the objectives of the workshop. The assessment is both written and practical. Further guidance for the completion of risk assessment is not provided in these Local Rules as the course content documented above is provided to those assessors attending the course. The information contained in the course is available from Safety Services. Manual Handling Awareness One Day Course Manual Handling covers all tasks, which involve "the transport or supporting of a load (including the lifting, putting down, pushing, pulling, carrying or moving thereof) by hand or bodily force" - The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (as amended). This class provides participants with practical experience in manual handling techniques, as well as providing important information on the key issues. This one day workshop is designed for individuals whose manual handling activities are considered medium to high risk. This could be due to one or a combination of the following: 1. The manual handling tasks are categorised as medium to high risk. This increased

level of risk is likely to be due to specific factors associated with the Load (e.g. weight, bulk, and inherent danger), Task (e.g. frequency, duration) or Environment (e.g. restricted space, floor surfaces). The manual handling activities may be the same on a day to day or week to week basis.

2. The manual handling tasks are varied and/or unfamiliar e.g. throughout the University,

in a number of different settings, and/or a variety of different loads. This would require the individual to carry out an informal risk assessment to determine if the activity was safe to undertake or required a more detailed risk assessment.

Fundamentally, the one day workshop requires more opportunity to discuss participants’ specific requirements and gain practice of informal risk assessments. This enables staff to consolidate their ability to recognise a variety of higher risk activities and identify appropriate actions i.e. establish if they are able to go ahead with the manual handling task, or if a more detailed manual handling risk assessment is required, and ensure they are comfortable with the appropriate control strategies.

Appendix 4 – Training (Cont’d)

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The workshop also gives the opportunity to discuss the principles of ergonomics and how they apply to manual handling to enable them to apply an ergonomic approach to control strategies. Practical exercises are geared to accommodate these specific requirements. Examples of the main categories of individuals who may benefit from this course are technical staff in Science and Engineering departments plus Estates Management trades staff. Manual Handling Half Day Awareness Course This class provides participants with practical experience in manual handling techniques, as well as providing important information on the key issues. The half-day workshop is specifically designed for individuals whose manual handling activities are considered lower risk. This would include:

1. The manual handling activities are categorised as low risk due to the nature of the

Load (e.g. weight, bulk), Task (e.g. frequency, duration) or Environment (e.g. space to manoeuvre, floor surfaces) as well as the individual factors of the staff carrying out the manual handling activities.

2. When manual handling activities are the same on a day to day and week to week

basis. The loads are known, the tasks do not vary significantly and the activities are carried out in the same or similar working environments e.g. manual handling of files, photocopy paper in an office, library activities.

With lower risk manual handling activities conducted in the same environment each day the practice of informal risk assessments requires less time. Although the meaning of ergonomics is briefly explained there is not the opportunity to practice the application of ergonomic principles to a variety of manual handling solutions. Examples of the main categories of individuals who may benefit from this course are secretarial, some administrative staff and academics. A course booklet is provided to each delegate on a course.

Appendix 5 – Summary of Factors

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Controlling the risks The Manual Handling Regulations require that in the first instance manual handling must be avoided wherever possible. A hierarchy of control measures for reducing risks are set out below. Elimination The first thing to consider is whether or not the load needs to be handled at all or is there an alternative way of doing things? For instance large containers can be fitted with cheap taps or siphon pumps for decanting rather than being tipped over. This not only deals with the manual handling aspect of the task but reduces the risk of spillage. Automation Many operations can be automated and the need for manual handling eliminated. The use of pallet trucks and fork lifts, cranes etc should be examined as a control method. Mechanical assistance The use of handling aids is often a simple solution to many manual handling activities. While they do not eliminate the risk completely they will reduce it by reducing the handling or by making the handling more efficient. Task Distance from body The optimum carrying position for a load should be as close to the body as possible. As the arms are extended and a load moved away from the body the leverage that the load exerts on the spine is increased and the individual’s capacity to support the load is consequently lessened. It also becomes more difficult to control the load which can result in sudden jerking movements or loss of good posture which in turn can result in injury. Are excessive lifting and lowering distances involved? Excessive lifting and lowering distances can be considerably more demanding physically than small ones. Lifts beginning at floor level or above head height should be avoided where possible. In many cases a change of grip will be needed during the operation over larger distances further increasing the risk. Storage of materials should be carefully considered, shelves above shoulder or below mid-thigh height should be reserved for lighter more manageable loads while heavier materials should be stored on shelves between mid-thigh and shoulder height to reduce the risk. Are excessive carrying distances involved? The further a load is carried the greater the physical stresses on the individual leading to fatigue and increased risk of injury. Generally if a load is carried more than 10m then the physical demands of carrying the load will tend to predominate over those of lifting and lowering and individual capability will be reduced. Is excessive pushing or pulling involved? Pushing or pulling can be injurious to handlers particularly where the hands are used below the mid-thigh or above shoulder height. It is important, therefore when pushing or pulling a load, even when it is on a trolley or slide that a proper grip between mid-thigh and shoulder level is obtained. Also if traction between the handler’s feet and the floor is poor then the risk of injury is likely to be increased significantly.

Appendix 5 – Summary of Factors (Cont’d)

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Is there a risk of sudden load movements? If a load suddenly becomes free and the handler is unprepared then complete control of the load may be lost. This increases the likelihood of injury. Is frequent or prolonged physical effort required? Relatively light loads, handled very frequently can create as great a risk of injury as a fairly large load. This is especially true if the movement is rapid and jerky. Where the posture remains relatively unchanged for prolonged periods the frequency of handling will be compounded by a fairly rapid onset of tiredness and muscles will become less efficient. Are there sufficient rest and recovery periods? Rest breaks (stopping work) and recovery periods (where alternative work is carried out) will help to reduce the risk of injury by countering fatigue during physically demanding work. Avoiding fixed postures and repetitive action for prolonged periods will help increase output as well as helping to reduce fatigue. Breaks should be taken as required rather than at fixed intervals or, preferably, workers should rotate jobs allowing different groups of muscles to be used while other muscles are rested. Does a process impose a rate of work? Particular care is necessary where the rate of work cannot be varied by the handler but is imposed by a process. Mild fatigue which could be relieved by a short rest or recovery period can soon become a serious problem, leading to increased risk of injury. Handling while seated This has particular problems as the powerful leg muscles cannot be used and the body is not free to act as a counter-balance. The handler will have to reach or lean over and, when lifting from beneath a work surface for example, will be involved in twisting and stooping. Where the task is designed to be performed seated then seating should be chosen for the particular task and to help reduce the risk. The heights of seats to work surfaces should be carefully matched and where necessary swivel chairs should be chosen to eliminate twisting. The chair should be stable and should comply with the appropriate British and European Standards. Team handling While team handling may allow the handling of loads which are outwith the capabilities of one person, and thus reduce the risk, there are limits involved. On rough ground the proportion of the weight that each individual is handling may vary constantly. On stairs, the person at the lower end of the load will be supporting a greater proportion of the weight. As an approximate guide, the capability of a two person team is two thirds of the sum of their individual capabilities and for a three person team the capability is half the sum of their individual capabilities. In addition, the load and the other team members can impede individual member's vision thus reducing their efficiency. The load must have suitable hand holds. Finally, team members must communicate with each other during the lift and work in a co-ordinated manner to ensure a safe lift. This will require training and the use of a team leader.


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The Load Is the load heavy? The "heaviness" of a load is fairly subjective and is no longer the only consideration when assessing the load. Consideration should be given to reduction of load by specifying that loads be supplied in lower package weights. The gain here should, however, be balanced against an increased risk from increasing the frequency of the task. However, numerical guidelines are given in Figure 1 of the Risk Assessment Filter (Appendix 1). These are based on symmetrical, two handed lifts, in front of and close to the body. Any deviation from this type of lift will reduce the capacity to lift. Loads may be sorted into weight categories to allow more selective use of any additional precautions. Is the load bulky or unwieldy? The shape of the load will affect the way it can be held. For instance if the load will not pass between the knees, its bulk will hinder a close approach. If the front corners cannot be reached when carried at waist height then a proper grip is more difficult. If the load is to be carried at the side of the body and is too long to be carried without bending away from it in order to prevent contact with the floor or ground, then the handler is forced into an awkward posture. When purchasing materials, consideration should be given to specifying smaller, less bulky and consequently more easily handled loads. If any dimension of the load exceeds 75 cm then it can become more awkward to handle. If it exceeds 75 cm on two or three dimensions then the load will pose an increased risk of injury, especially if it has no convenient hand holds. Bulky loads may interfere with vision, increasing the possibility of slip, trip, fall or collision. Large loads may be susceptible to sudden movements and shifts of balance caused by gusts of wind or collision with objects. Such loads may require a team lift or, better still, mechanical aids. Many loads have their centre of gravity off centre. Picking up such a load with the heavy end away from the body greatly increases the risk of injury. Unmarked and sealed cartons should be tested to find the centre of gravity before they are lifted. Is the load difficult to grasp? If the load is large, rounded, smooth, wet or greasy it will require the use of extra grip strength which in turn can lead to fatigue. This may result in changes in posture and a greater chance of dropping the load. The provision of handles, grips, indents etc which make the load easier to handle or even placing the load into a container which makes it easier to grasp and handle should be considered. Handles should be placed in a position and be of a size and design which is convenient, comfortable and safe for those using them. Is the load unstable or are its contents likely to shift? The likelihood of injury can be increased if the load lacks rigidity or has shifting contents. This instability will result in unpredictable shifts in the centre of balance leading to stresses for which the handler is unprepared. The contents of loads should not move during handling. Containers of liquids or free flowing powders should be well filled to prevent such movements such as large solvent bottles or Winchesters. Non-rigid loads (sacks of powder or granules) should be carried using slings or other handling aids to maintain adequate control. Handling animals or people can present additional problems. Added to the lack of rigidity is the concern of the handler to avoid damage to the load and the fact that the load may have "a mind of its own”. The risk here will be greater than when handling a similar but inanimate load.


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Is the load sharp, hot or otherwise potentially damaging? Sharp edges, rough splintered surfaces and excessively hot or cold surfaces may make it difficult to carry the load and increase the risk of injury. This might make it awkward to grip properly, discourage good posture or otherwise interfere with safe handling. In some cases this may mean the provision of suitable protective clothing where containers cannot be insulated adequately or sharp or jagged edges cannot be avoided. Loads should be as free as possible from dust, oil, corrosive deposits etc. The Environment Are there space constraints preventing good posture? Cluttered working areas will increase the need for leaning, over-reaching and twisting as well as making it difficult to manoeuvre bulky loads. Working areas should be as free as possible from clutter and good housekeeping is essential where manual handling operations are carried out. Provision of sufficient head room and clear floor space is important. Constrictions caused by narrow doorways and the poor positioning of plant and machinery should be avoided. Are there uneven, slippery or unstable floors? Such floors increase the likelihood of slips, trips and falls as well as hindering the smooth movement of loads and making such movement unpredictable. Floors, inside and out, should be flat, well maintained and properly drained. Temporary sites where manual handling operations are to be carried out should be prepared properly and maintained. Temporary work platforms should be firm and stable. Spillage of water, oil, soap, food scraps and any other substance likely to make the floor slippery, should be cleared away promptly. If floors are likely to become wet, then attention should be given to the use of slip resistant surfaces. Moving floors on, for instance, a mobile working platform, moving vehicle or a boat also create unpredictable stresses increasing the risk of injury and reducing the capacity to handle loads safely. Are there variations in level of floors or work surfaces? Steps, steep slopes, "sleeping policemen" etc can add to the complexity of movement, requiring a constantly shifting posture and thus increasing risk. Therefore, floors where manual handling operations are carried out should be, as far as possible, at a single level. Where more than one level is involved then the transition between levels preferably should be made by a gentle slope or, failing that, well positioned and properly maintained steps. Manual handling on steep slopes should be avoided. Carrying of loads on ladders is especially risky as there is the additional need to maintain a proper hold on the ladder. Excessive variations between heights of working surfaces, storage shelves etc should be avoided as these will increase the range of movement required and the consequent risk of injury. This is particularly so if loads will be required to be moved from near floor level to shoulder height or beyond. Are there extremes of temperature or humidity? Extremes of temperature and excessive humidity should be avoided as they will cause rapid fatigue and increased perspiration on the hands which can reduce the grip; low temperatures will reduce dexterity. If necessary, personal protective equipment should be provided to counteract the effects of extreme conditions but these may reduce dexterity and grip as well as hinder movement. Air movement may cause wind chill in a cold environment in which case handlers should be allowed more frequent breaks. If working in high temperatures, frequent breaks for water or soft drinks should be provided to prevent dehydration in staff.


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Are there ventilation problems or gusts of wind? Inadequate ventilation can hasten fatigue and reduce concentration, increasing the risk of injury. High winds or strong currents of air from powerful ventilation systems or air movers can catch a bulky or unwieldy load and de-stabilise the handler. Possible improvements include delaying work until better weather conditions, relocating operations or routes, provision of handling aids or use of team handling to give better control. Are there poor lighting conditions? Poor lighting can increase the risk of injury from manual handling activities. Dimness or glare may cause stooping; excessive contrasts between brightly lit and deeply shaded areas should be avoided as they can mask tripping hazards and hinder the accurate judgement of height and distance; and lighting should be sufficient, well directed and even. The Individual Does the task require unusual strength, height, reach etc? Manual handling tasks should be able to be carried out by the majority of reasonably fit healthy employees and should not rely on an employee being unusually strong or tall etc. Individual capabilities should not be used as a method of controlling risk. Personal capacity Particular consideration should be given to employees who are or who have recently been pregnant, are experiencing the menopause, are known to have a history of back trouble, hernia, joint strain or other manual handling related injury. Staff subjected to unaccustomed exertion are particularly at risk, for instance in the performance of a new manual handling task or on return to work after holiday or sickness absence. It is recommended that students should not be used to carry out manual handling operations. However, if this is deemed necessary by the Head of Department, extreme care should be taken when using students and younger members of staff (eg Trainee Technicians) to carry out such operations. These individuals have little or no experience of manual handling operations, particularly those involving teamwork, and will, individually and as a group, over-estimate their own capabilities. Any such operations must be assessed thoroughly and an experienced team leader put in charge. Personal Protective Equipment Personal protective equipment may be required to control the risk involved in manual handling operations. This should always be considered a last resort but the nature of the load (sharp edges, hot surfaces) or of the environment (cold, excessively wet) may necessitate the use of personal protective equipment. Examples are steel toe capped shoes, boiler suits, gloves, aprons and gaiters. Where required these must be supplied by the department at no cost to the person using them. Where necessary they must also be properly maintained or replaced as required. However it should be noted that personal protective equipment may reduce the operator's capacity to lift. In such cases the protection offered by the personal protective equipment should not be compromised to make the manual handling easier, rather the task or load should be modified. Where there is a hazard from the nature of the load (hot liquid, acids) then alternative handling methods should be considered (e.g. mechanisation).

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