TOOL BOX TALKS Manual Handling

What is Manual Handling Any activity requiring the use of force exerted by a person to lift, push, pull, carry or otherwise move, hold or restrain any object.

Manual Handling About 32% of workplace injuries are caused by manual handling Injuries usually involve the back, neck or shoulders Injuries are caused my sudden movements as well lifting something heavy or wear and tear from repetitive work

Why Hazardous High force – lifting something really heavy, pushing a heavy trolley, straining Unsafe awkward posture – bending/twisting Sustained work – holding a heavy item for some time Repetitive work – using the same muscles, tendons, ligaments over and over Unstable/unbalanced loads which may be difficult to grasp

Spinal structure and posture There are 3 main curves in the spine Cervical (inward) Thoracic (outward) Lumbar (inward)

Structure and function of spine Function: support body in an upright posture, and protect the spinal cord Structure: Vertebrae (body segments Discs (cushion the vertebrae, act as shock absorber) Spinal cord (nerves)

Organisation Manual Handling Policy and Safe Work Practices for specific tasks

Safe Lifting Zone Avoid lifting above here Most desirable range Avoid lifting below here

Practical Strategies to reduce risk of injury Plan ahead – complete risk assessment Don’t rush Use lifting equipment Seek assistance Avoid twisting by moving your feet Stretch/warm up prior to manual handling If an unusual or unfamiliar task take a step back and think about how to do it safely Maintain good posture Use safe lifting techniques

Safe Lifting Technique Size up the load Move as close to the load as possible Position your feet apart under the shoulders Brace abdominals and shoulders Incline trunk forward, hips and knees bent, push bottom backwards so shoulders are over the centre of gravity of the load Test the weight of the load – is it safe to lift? Keep load close to body and keep head and chest up Straighten up by extending hips and knees Change direction with your feet – avoid twisting