Handling 40kg cement and other product bags
Most bagged cement sold in Queensland comes in 40kg bags, even though it is available in 20kg bags.
Studies have shown that even in ideal situations, most people cannot safely handle bags of 40kg. Lifting bags of this weight may cause strains and sprains - and this type of injuries (especially strains and sprains of the back) account for half of all injuries lodged each year with WorkCover.
A risk assessment conducted on the manual handling of 40kg cement bags within an industrial workplace found that this activity exposed workers to an unacceptable risk of musculoskeletal injury. As such, an employer should implement controls to safeguard workers' health and safety where people are required to handle bags of 40kg.
Ways to control hazards
- Introduce new purchasing policies. Buy only 20kg bags of cement or buy lighter bags when the work is to be carried out by one person.
- Mechanise the task. Use trucks, trolleys, wheelbarrows and other aids to move heavy bags. Regularly maintain these aids.
- Redesign the task. For example, replace frequently bagged products with a bulk purchasing and handling system.
- Locate heavy bagged product close to where it will be used. Store heavier bags at waist or near-waist height.
- Keep the work area clear so there is open access to bags and no need to twist, reach or bend.
- Be trained in the correct use of mechanical aids, lifting techniques and team lifting.
- Introduce administrative controls if you cannot redesign the task. For example:
- Break up heavy handling tasks with lighter work.
- Rotate jobs so heavy load handling is not left up to just a few.
- Take regular rest breaks, especially micro breaks of a minute or two.
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