Types of hazards

Manual handling and lifting

Manual handling is defined by the Manual Handling Regulations "as any activity requiring the use of force exerted by a person to lift, push, pull, carry or otherwise move or restrain any object."

Manual handling is much more than lifting or lowering an object.

It includes:

• Pushing
• Carrying
• Holding
• Lifting

And activities involving sustained (awkward) posture and repetitive actions.

Inappropriate manual handling and lifting

Manual handling injuries can occur to tendons in the wrists, arms and shoulders that may cause prolonged agonising pain. This is the basis of RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury).

The back is particularly vulnerable when subjected to the continuous pressure of lifting heavy objects and/or continual bad posture. Back injury is the single biggest Occupational Health and Safety problem in Australian workplaces. Back injuries account for approximately 25% of all WorkCover claims.

Manual Handling Injury Prevention

Step 1: Consider the task

• Where is it to be carried out?
• How often is it to be carried out?
• What are the related environmental factors (space, trip/slip hazards, etc.)?

Step 2: Consider the objects to be moved

• How heavy?
• Is it easy to grip?

Step 3: Consider the procedure

• Is there a form of mechanical assistance?
• Has training been provided?
• Has personalised protective equipment been provided (such as a wide band to support the back)?

Step 4: Consider the lifter

• Are they physically capable of the task?
• Are they skilled in lifting techniques? Are they experienced in the task? What is their age?

As well as back problems, inappropriate manual handling can lead to: Abdominal hernias Aggravation of circulatory and respiratory disease Fatigue leading to accident Injuries arising from sudden exertion

Procedures for lifting an object

Step 1: Examine the object

• Weight
• Shape
• Sharp edges
• Stability

Step 2: Plan the lift

• Check the route is clear of trip and slip hazards
• Work out where you are going to place the object and ensure there is sufficient room to place it
• Decide how to hold the object

Step 3: Determine if lifting equipment or help is required

Step 4: Wear the correct personal protective equipment (e.g. safety shoes, bump hat, gloves)

Controlling Manual Handling Risk Traditional approaches to controlling manual handling risks tended to focus on setting weight limits for lifting, and training in correct lifting techniques. These measures alone were inadequate in reducing the number and severity of injuries. There are many factors, other than the weights of objects, which contribute to the risk of manual handling injury. The layout of the workplace, the skill and experience of staff, posture, the duration and frequency of the activity, and work organisation may also increase the likelihood of manual handling injury. Manual handling tasks likely to pose a risk to health and safety must be examined, and assessed. Where tasks are assessed as a risk, the risk must be controlled. In order to avoid injuries control of manual handling risks should be planned, and managed systematically and reviewed regularly. A systematic approach to reducing manual handling injuries should include: