The Task

Is the task essential? Can it be avoided?

Wherever possible, manual handling should be avoided and an alternative method found.

Is it a repeat task?

If the task is repetitive then always take into account the safe guidance weights. Ensure to rest muscles and enlist the use of others try to vary your tasks. When carrying out regular tasks that involve potential injury the task in hand should always be assessed before carrying it.

The Individual

The ability to carry out manual handling varies from person to person depending on age, sex and fitness. You should never assume that if one person carries a load with ease so will another. An individual may have physical conditions impeding their abilities and exposing them to a greater risk of manual handling injury.

For example:

• Pre-existing back or limb problems
• Pregnancy

To determine whether the task can be carried out safely or poses a threat, these factors need to be considered for all tasks and every person.

The quantities for men and women shown in the diagram demonstrate the guideline weight limits only and the area of the body where the load will be held. For anyone lifting an object weighing more than the guideline figures shown, a manual handling assessment must be completed.

The Load

Is the load heavy?

Remember that just looking at the size of the load is not indicative as to how much the object actually weighs.

Is the load bulky?

Sometimes an object can be very light but large and an awkward shape. Surprisingly, this can often cause more problems than lifting a heavy object. How we grip a large object affects how we stretch muscles and the strain on them.

Is the load difficult to grip?

If the load is hot or has sharp areas it will be difficult to hold. These kinds of load are generally held away from the body meaning extra strain is put on the arms and back.

Is the load stable?

Liquid loads can move during transportation. The shifting of weight results in you continually having to adjust your body to carry the shifting weight. A sudden shifting load can disrupt your balance and may result in a trip or fall.

How can I move this object more safely?

It is important to assess if the load can be divided into several smaller loads. This may result in the load taking longer to move but the risk to you is greatly reduced.

In many cases the load cannot be altered, so it may be necessary to enlist the help of others to move it; this is usually in the form of assistance from another person or a form of mechanical aid like a fork lift truck.

The Environment

The workplace environment needs to be safe. It can have a significant effect on what we can do safely. If the environment is spacious, free of obstruction and dry, often the task can be carried out safely. If the environment is confined and slippery then these conditions may contribute to an injury. The factors below are examples of important conditions that should be considered when assessing the environment:

Are there structural defects?

There is more risk of a slip, trip or fall if the floor is uneven or in disrepair. During a fall, the shifting weight of the load can cause muscular injuries. Wherever possible, keep routes clear whilst carrying out manual handling tasks. If damage has occurred along the route, then individuals should be aware of them to avoid any accidents.

Are there any changes in level?

When carrying out manual handling tasks that involve a steep inclines or steps there is a risk to safety of the individual. Think about using a mechanical aid if inclines or steps cannot be avoided.

Is the lighting sufficient?

When carrying out manual handling tasks ensure there is enough quality lighting. Good lighting will make hazards clearly visible and help prevent accidents occurring.

Is there a clear space to complete the task safely?

If carrying out a manual handling task make sure you have sufficient space and if possible, remove all obstructions along the route you are taking.

Spillages, liquid in particular, can create a slipping hazard. A high level of cleanliness of the workplace is highly important to maintain a safe and pleasant environment to work in.

Reducing the Risk of Injury

Employers must make sure that when a heavy load is identified through risk assessment, under no circumstances should an unsafe attempt to move the load single-handedly be made.

If possible, help should be enlisted in the form of another person or mechanical aid like a fork lift truck.

A suitable risk reduction method will have been identified by your employer and it is important that you follow this method to reduce the potential injury risk.