TEAM TALKMANUAL HANDLING

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Manual Handling

The aim of this session is to provide you with information on:-

The types of injuries which can result in poor manual handling

The legislation relating to manual handling

Safe manual handling techniques

A demonstration on good manual handling techniques

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Introduction

Definition :- “any transporting or supporting of a load (including the lifting, putting down, pushing, pulling, carrying or moving thereof) by hand or by bodily force”

Any activity that requires an individual to lift, move or support a load will be classified as a manual handling task

Also consider - twisting, reaching, pulling, carrying and stretching

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Legislation

Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 – Main Requirements

Require:-- Avoid hazardous manual handling operations so far as is reasonably practicable - Mechanise or automate process, where possible- Assess any hazardous manual handling

operation that cannot be avoided - Reduce the risk of injury so far as is reasonably

practicable - Provide training and information

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1. Cuts and abrasions Short term injuries Discomfort and scarring

Injuries Resulting From Manual Handling

2. Crushed/fractured limbs

−Painful

−Eventually repair themselves

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Injuries (Continued)

3.Soft tissue damage Muscles, ligaments, tendons Painful but again, these heal with time

4. Hernias

− Very painful

− Major mobility problems

− Corrective surgery

− Can prevent future manual handling

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Injuries (Continued)

5.Spinal / nerve injuries Very common Long term/permanent damage Slipped/prolapsed disc

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Correct Lifting Techniques

Get a firm grip

Ensure you feet are secure

Keep your back upright by bending your knees

Avoid bending at the waist whilst lifting

Never obstruct your vision

Take your time – Don’t rush!

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Correct Lifting Techniques

Always check the weight of an object before lifting

Seek help if objects are too heavy or large. If you feel uncomfortable with the weight seek assistance

For a team lift, work with someone of similar build and height

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Correct Lifting Techniques

Split heavy loads into manageable sizes

Carry loads close to the body

Counterbalance loads, so that the forces acting on your back are balanced

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Correct Lifting Techniques

Before lifting ensure your route is clear

Before carrying objects through narrow walkways check passage way is clear of obstacles

Stay alert and slow down if your route has variations of levels e.g. steps, stairs

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Using a Trolley / Cage

Visual check before use – Good repair? Wheels run smoothly?

Heavy items on the bottom, lighter items on top

Never overload the trolley / cage

Never obstruct your vision

Do not over reach or overstretch to put something away. Do not stand on boxes to reach higher shelves. Do not carry boxes if a trolley is available. Do not carry things on your own if someone else can help you. “Team lifting” is much safer than struggling on your own. Do not twist, stoop or turn when lifting or carrying items.

Push the trolley / cage if visibility is good and if you can control stopping and steering

Move the trolley / cage at walking speed

If using a trolley / cage over uneven surfaces, or up / down a ramp or slope, ask for help

Do not over reach or overstretch to put something away.

Do not stand on boxes to reach higher shelves.

Do not carry boxes if a trolley is available.

Do not carry things on your own if someone else can help you. “Team lifting” is much safer than struggling on your own.

Do not twist, stoop or turn when lifting or carrying items.

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Manual Handling Assessments

No manual handling activity is completely safe

A risk assessment will reduce the risks

Employees must be made aware of assessment

Assessments must be suitable and sufficient – not generic

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Manual Handling Assessment

L OAD

I NDIVIDUAL

T ASK

E NVIRONMENT

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Load

Observe loads, are they:-

Unwieldy

Heavy

Difficult to grasp

Sharp

Hot/ cold

Likely to move or shift in transit

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Individual

Observe individuals:- Do they require unusual strength or height

for any activity? Is anyone pregnant, disabled or suffering

from a health problem? Is specialist knowledge or training required? Has effective training been completed? Is a trolley or cage being used?

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Task

Consider the different activities and whether they involve:-Twisting, stooping, bendingExcessive travelPushing, pulling or precise positioning of the loadSudden movement, inadequate rest or recovery periodsTeam handling or seated work

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Site Specific Tasks

Moving cages

Moving patio heaters

Carrying loads up/down stairs

Lifting external tables and chairs

Lowering deliveries through hatches

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Environment

Looking at internal/external areas consider:

Confined spaces Uneven, slippery or unstable floors Variations in floor levels Extremely hot, cold or humid conditions Poor lighting/ventilation

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Any Questions?

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