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Manual handling
Manual handling may require repetitive or forceful movement or awkward postures. They may be activities in which a person has to lift, lower, push, pull, carry, move or restrain an object.
Injuries related to manual handling are generally caused by physical stress and strain over a long period of time.
In the hospitality and entertainment industry, manual handling risks include:
- carrying boxes;
- stacking shelves;
- cleaning and cooking equipment;
- stretching for pots and pans; and
- bending and balancing while serving.
Ways to control hazards
- Arrange for deliveries to be unloaded directly to where they are needed.
- Use forklifts or pallet jacks to unload deliveries.
- Buy smaller, lighter cartons of stock.
- Use smaller pots and pans.
- Provide easy access shelving, or store heavier items in middle shelves and lighter items up higher.
- Ensure workers are trained in safe lifting methods.
- Share lifting tasks.
- Install a rubbish chute.
- Use smaller, lighter rubbish bins and move them by trolley.
- Place regularly-used items and equipment in easy-to-reach places.
- Use smaller trays and baskets for clearing tables.
- Carry only a limited number of plates and glasses at any time.
- Introduce buffet style service instead of table service.
- Redesign drive-through or servery windows to reduce the need to stretch. Provide a chute if possible.
- Fix tables and chairs in permanent positions so they don’t have to be stacked, moved or set up daily. If this is not possible, use chair trolleys or light/collapsible furniture.
- Provide loading areas close to storage areas.
More information
Read more about manual handling.
Last updated October 5, 2005