Manual handling is the term given to supporting or transporting objects of any load. Lifting and moving items is a part of our lives, however some tasks performed in the Workplace do pose a risk that can cause long-term injuries.
Below, we look at a few common dangers posed by manual handling within the workplace, the main hazards and risks and what can be done to reduce them.
What does the law say about manual handling at work?
Employers must follow the guidelines laid out in the Manual Handling Operations Regulations (MHOR) to ensure the safety of their workers. There are other parts of legislation, such as Health and Safety at Work Act and Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations, that should also be considered.
Under MHOR regulations, manual handling is classed as the supporting or transporting of any load. This doesn’t just cover lifting, as it also extends to pulling, pushing, putting down, carrying and moving by or bodily force. The load itself doesn’t have to be an object, as it can also apply to a person or even an animal.
By law, companies must ensure that:
- Hazardous manual handling processes are avoided as much as possible
- Appropriate risk assessments are conducted before any manual handling tasks
- Risks are reduced to the lowest level possible
- Staff are provided with suitable equipment to minimise manual handling requirements
- Regular training and information is provided about load weights and the best equipment and techniques to use to reduce health risks
- Any incidents or accidents are reported under RIDDOR guidelines
- Reports and records about any incidents or accidents are consistently maintained
Employees also have some legal responsibility, such as:
- Taking practical care of their own safety and that of their fellow works and any visitors
- Using the safety equipment provided in-line with training instructions
- Informing management of any hazards or accidents as soon as they occur
Injuries caused by bad manual handling
Poor manual handling is one of the most common types of causes of injury at work. This is why it is so important to ensure correct procedures are followed wherever possible, as it can lead to serious harm. Injuries caused could be things such as:
- Sprains
- Strains or pulled muscles
- Cuts and abrasions
- Prolapsed discs (slipped discs)
- Musculoskeletal disorders (related to upper and lower limb disorders, joints and other tissues)
- Hernias (in the lower abdomen)
- Crushed limbs
Assessing weight limits for manual handling
By law there are no specific legal weight limits that apply to the workplace. However, in order to ensure that the weight can be handled appropriately without harming anyone’s health, the risk assessment should analyse the task at hand, individual capability, the load, working environment and how use of protective clothing or equipment will affect posture and movement.
Lifting weights can be very particular to the individual involved, their experience at performing the movement and personal strength at the time of the event. A guideline of no more than 25kg is often suggested as a max lifting weight, and purely subjective based on many factors.
Bear in mind there are also recommended weight limits for two people lifting an item. The maximum weight limit does not double, rather it is based on the lifting capabilities of each person. The general rule is that 2/3rds of the total sum of both individual’s lifting limits should not be exceeded. When three people are lifting, this limit is reduced to half of everyone’s lifting limits.
What is the safest way to lift an item?
A key part of the training provided to staff about manual handling should be centred on the correct way to lift an item. Manual handling should only be used when there is no alternative available (such as automation or transportation equipment) and the techniques below should be followed;
Plan the lift
Remove any obstructions and be aware of where the item needs to be placed. Ask for help if needed.
Use your waist
Try to keep the load close to the waist so pressure on the back is minimised, with the heaviest side held closest.
Remain stable
Keep your feet apart and try to keep balanced by putting one leg slightly forward. Move your feet whilst lifting to keep your posture stable.
Keep a strong hold
Once lifted, hug the load as this will create a stronger lift, rather than just using your hands in front of you.
Maintain a straight back
Do not stoop over the item and bend you back when lifting. Slightly bending your hips, knees and back is better than fully squatting down. Always bend from your knees and not your upper body.
No twisting
Try not to twist your back or lean to the side, especially once you have bent your back. Ensure your shoulders are level and aligned with your hips.
Look ahead
Avoiding looking down at what you are lifting and instead look ahead once you have lifted.
Lift within limits
Only lift items that you can comfortably handle. Remember, what you can lift and what you can safely lift are two different things.
Lower and adjust
Place the load into its position and then adjust yourself. Slide the item into place once you have put it down, rather than stretching and reaching, if it still needs re-positioning.
Before attempting to lift an item, warm up your muscles as this will make the task easier. If the journey to the drop-off is a long one, stop halfway and safely put down the item to rest. Never rush when carrying a heavy item as this can lead to serious accidents and injuries occurring, not only to yourself but to others.
Use visual reminders for Manual Handling
Using Manual Handling Posters around the workplace is a useful way to remind people of Manual Handling procedures throughout your workplace. Position close to proximity were lifting takes place, or in regularly used common areas where they can be noticed.
Online sign design tools such as The Custom Sign Designer let you create uniquely worded Manual Handling Safety Signs for specific situations around your workplace - A cost effective visual reminder that can help reduce Manual Handling accidents.
Conclusion
Even with modern equipment and automation available, manual handling is still a common requirement in many industries. It only takes a second for an injury to happen, so it’s important to be vigilant of the risks and ensure you are doing everything possible to keep yourself and others safe.
For employers, putting strong preventative measures and training in place can make the world of difference. Performing a WorkplaceRisk Assessment can go a long way to ensure that manual handling tasks are easier and less of a hazard for everyone at work.
