Safety is something that happens between your ears, not something you hold in your hands.

What is manual handling?

Manual handling covers a wide range of activities including: lifting, pushing, pulling, holding, restraining, and carrying. It includes repetitive tasks such as packing, typing, assembling, cleaning and sorting, using hand-tools, operating machinery and equipment.

Risk Factors can include:

• How often you perform the manual handling task;
• Whether bending, twisting or reaching is involved;
• The weight of the object;
• How far you must carry the load;
• The layout and condition of the workplace;
• Your skill and experience;
• Mechanical aids; and/or
• The nature and size of the object.

Follow our tips for good manual handling techniques and avoid a nasty strain injury.

LIFTING

1. Squat to Lift or Lower
2. Keep Weight Close to the Body
3. Keep Your Feet Apart
4. Turn with Your Feet

CARRYING

1. Keep Weight Close to the Body
2. Carry Using Diagonal Ends of the Object
3. Grip with the Whole Hand

HANDLING LARGE, BULKY OR AWKWARD ITEMS

1. Repackage the item for easier handling
2. Use a mechanical aid to lift, lower or move the item
3. Use a team lift of 2 or more people

Remember!

Most jobs involve some form of manual handling, and it can be done safely.

 Injuries can occur suddenly or over a long period of time.