Load handling
The way a load is handled can increase the risk of injury. For example, lifting and carrying loads are the biggest causes of back problems.
Lifting and carrying requires awkward postures and very forceful exertions. Pushing or pulling can also cause muscle overload and lower back problems.
Different handling procedures result in different postures, and different levels of muscular effort are needed to perform a task. For example:
- Sliding, pushing and pulling tasks are better than lifting and carrying tasks; however they may require awkward postures and forceful exertions.
- Restraining people can require static working postures and/or increased forceful exertions, particularly if sudden movement occurs.
- Supporting a load or body part (such as holding the arms out away from the body) also require static postures, which increase fatigue.
Ways to control hazards
Manual lifting or carrying heavy loads should be a last resort only. Look for ways to eliminate or minimise manual tasks. As well as reducing health and safety risks, this will make your work more efficient.
Redesign the task
- Use machines wherever possible.
- Make loads lighter and less bulky.
- Provide handles to make loads easier to grasp.
- Use mobile racks for pallets, containers or trays. Use skids, skates, wheels and slides.
- Keep heavy work items at waist height.
- Push, pull, slide or roll a load (instead of carrying).
- Use packaging that is not slippery with a comfortable temperature for handling.
- Take precautions (for example, secure a load if the contents are likely to move).
- Use non powered conveyors, air bearings, ball castor tables, monorails and other devices to reduce the need for pushing and pulling.
- Use trolleys with large wheels or castors that roll freely, and with handles at about 1m.
Mechanical aids and assistive devices
- Select the correct aids to suit the load and the work. Check they are light and easy to use.
- Locate handling equipment close to the work area.
- Maintain aids and devices in good working order.
- Train workers in the correct use of aids and devices.
Storage
- Store loads between thigh and shoulder level. Store only light items close to the floor or above shoulder level.
- Where a load is to be lifted from a low to a high position, provide a surface midway. This allows the load to be rested while the grip position is changed.
- Avoid double handling. Implement 'just in time' arrangements to reduce the amount of materials in storage and requiring handling.
- Arrange for the delivery of goods close to where they are needed. Reorganise the work area to reduce the need to carry loads for long distances.
- Implement a procedure so workers can access help with handling loads (particularly if they are working alone or mechanical aids are not practical).
- Match people involved in team handling arrangements. Train workers in safe manual handling techniques.
More information on load handling is provided in the Manual Tasks Advisory Standard 2000 (now known as a Code of Practice).
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