TEAM TALK MANUAL HANDLING Manual Handling Slide 1

Manual Handling The aim of this session is to provide you with information on:-  The types of injuries which can result in poor manual handling  The legislation relating to manual handling  Safe manual handling techniques  A demonstration on good manual handling techniques Manual Handling Slide 2

Introduction  Definition :- “any transporting or supporting of a load (including the lifting, putting down, pushing, pulling, carrying or moving thereof) by hand or by bodily force”  Any activity that requires an individual to lift, move or support a load will be classified as a manual handling task  Also consider - twisting, reaching, pulling, carrying and stretching Manual Handling Slide 3

Legislation Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 – Main Requirements  Require:- - Avoid hazardous manual handling operations so far as is reasonably practicable - Mechanise or automate process, where possible - Assess any hazardous manual handling operation that cannot be avoided - Reduce the risk of injury so far as is reasonably practicable - Provide training and information Manual Handling Slide 4

1.Cuts and abrasions  Short term injuries  Discomfort and scarring Injuries Resulting From Manual Handling 2. Crushed/fractured limbs −Painful −Eventually repair themselves Manual Handling Slide 5

Injuries (Continued) 3.Soft tissue damage  Muscles, ligaments, tendons  Painful but again, these heal with time 4.Hernias −Very painful −Major mobility problems −Corrective surgery −Can prevent future manual handling Manual Handling Slide 6

Injuries (Continued) 5.Spinal / nerve injuries  Very common  Long term/permanent damage  Slipped/prolapsed disc Manual Handling Slide 7

Correct Lifting Techniques  Get a firm grip  Ensure you feet are secure  Keep your back upright by bending your knees  Avoid bending at the waist whilst lifting  Never obstruct your vision  Take your time – Don’t rush! Manual Handling Slide 8

Correct Lifting Techniques  Always check the weight of an object before lifting  Seek help if objects are too heavy or large. If you feel uncomfortable with the weight seek assistance  For a team lift, work with someone of similar build and height Manual Handling Slide 9

Correct Lifting Techniques  Split heavy loads into manageable sizes  Carry loads close to the body  Counterbalance loads, so that the forces acting on your back are balanced Manual Handling Slide 10

Correct Lifting Techniques  Before lifting ensure your route is clear  Before carrying objects through narrow walkways check passage way is clear of obstacles  Stay alert and slow down if your route has variations of levels e.g. steps, stairs Manual Handling Slide 11

Using a Trolley / Cage  Visual check before use – Good repair? Wheels run smoothly?  Heavy items on the bottom, lighter items on top  Never overload the trolley / cage  Never obstruct your vision  Do not over reach or overstretch to put something away.  Do not stand on boxes to reach higher shelves.  Do not carry boxes if a trolley is available.  Do not carry things on your own if someone else can help you. “Team lifting” is much safer than struggling on your own.  Do not twist, stoop or turn when lifting or carrying items.  Push the trolley / cage if visibility is good and if you can control stopping and steering  Move the trolley / cage at walking speed  If using a trolley / cage over uneven surfaces, or up / down a ramp or slope, ask for help  Do not over reach or overstretch to put something away.  Do not stand on boxes to reach higher shelves.  Do not carry boxes if a trolley is available.  Do not carry things on your own if someone else can help you. “Team lifting” is much safer than struggling on your own.  Do not twist, stoop or turn when lifting or carrying items. Manual Handling Slide 12

Manual Handling Assessments  No manual handling activity is completely safe  A risk assessment will reduce the risks  Employees must be made aware of assessment  Assessments must be suitable and sufficient – not generic Manual Handling Slide 13

Manual Handling Assessment LOAD INDIVIDUAL TASK ENVIRONMENT Manual Handling Slide 14

Load Observe loads, are they:-  Unwieldy  Heavy  Difficult to grasp  Sharp  Hot/ cold  Likely to move or shift in transit Manual Handling Slide 15

Individual Observe individuals:-  Do they require unusual strength or height for any activity?  Is anyone pregnant, disabled or suffering from a health problem?  Is specialist knowledge or training required?  Has effective training been completed?  Is a trolley or cage being used? Manual Handling Slide 16

Task Consider the different activities and whether they involve:-  Twisting, stooping, bending  Excessive travel  Pushing, pulling or precise positioning of the load  Sudden movement, inadequate rest or recovery periods  Team handling or seated work Manual Handling Slide 17

Site Specific Tasks  Moving cages  Moving patio heaters  Carrying loads up/down stairs  Lifting external tables and chairs  Lowering deliveries through hatches Manual Handling Slide 18

Environment Looking at internal/external areas consider:  Confined spaces  Uneven, slippery or unstable floors  Variations in floor levels  Extremely hot, cold or humid conditions  Poor lighting/ventilation Manual Handling Slide 19

Any Questions? Manual Handling Slide 20