TEAM TALK MANUAL HANDLING Manual Handling Slide 1
Dec 17, 2015
TEAM TALKMANUAL 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
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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
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1. Cuts and abrasions Short term injuries Discomfort and scarring
Injuries Resulting From Manual Handling
2. Crushed/fractured limbs
−Painful
−Eventually repair themselves
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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
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Injuries (Continued)
5.Spinal / nerve injuries Very common Long term/permanent damage Slipped/prolapsed disc
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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!
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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Manual Handling Assessment
L OAD
I NDIVIDUAL
T ASK
E NVIRONMENT
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Load
Observe loads, are they:-
Unwieldy
Heavy
Difficult to grasp
Sharp
Hot/ cold
Likely to move or shift in transit
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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?
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Task
Consider the different activities and whether they involve:-Twisting, stooping, bendingExcessive travelPushing, pulling or precise positioning of the loadSudden movement, inadequate rest or recovery periodsTeam handling or seated work
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Site Specific Tasks
Moving cages
Moving patio heaters
Carrying loads up/down stairs
Lifting external tables and chairs
Lowering deliveries through hatches
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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
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Any Questions?
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