Symmetrical Group
Policies and Procedures
OHS&E\SAFETY PROCEDURES
SG-PR-33-06 Manual Handling
In manual handling, the person is the prime source of power in moving materials and equipment. Manual handling includes lifting, pulling, pushing, carrying or moving.
Any manual handling task that is likely to be a risk to health and safety must be examined and assessed before the task begins. The assessment is done in consultation with the personnel involved in the manual handling task and takes into account;
- the force applied by the person,
- the actions and movements involved,
- the range of weights handled,
- duration and frequency of movements,
- time and distance over which an object is handled,
- the availability of mechanical aids,
- the layout and condition of the workplace,
- the work organisation,
- postural requirements imposed by the manual handling task,
- the skill, strength and the experience of the personnel,
- the nature of the object/material being handled,
- any other relevant factors.
20 KG IS THE MAXIMUM WEIGHT TO BE LIFTED. USE MECHANICAL ASSISTANCE AND OR TEAM LIFTING ARRANGEMENTS TO REDUCE THE RISK OF INJURY.
- The risk of back injury increases significantly when lifting weights heavier than 20 kg.
- When sitting, do not lift loads heavier than 4.5 kg.
- Do not lift loads heavier than 55 kg manually.
Use the following principles to ensure safe manual handling of materials and equipment:
- Before starting any manual task, assess the situation by sizing up the load, and:
- if the load is too heavy or awkward, lift with mechanical assistance or get help,
- ensure that the load is safe for handling (no sharp edges, protrusions etc),
- ensure that the area around the load is safe,
- check that the place the load is to be moved to is clear to accept the load,
- wear the appropriate personal protective equipment,
- Correctly position your body:
- position your body correctly before starting,
- bend your knees,
- grip the load firmly,
- keep your back straight,
- keep your body balanced,
- lift the load smoothly, using your legs - not your back.
- Handle the load correctly:
- use your body weight to move the load,
- face the direction in which the load is to be moved,
- hug the load close to your body,
- move your feet - do not twist your body,
- look where you are going,
- move slowly and steadily, do not jerk,
Figure 1 - Correct Manual Handling Operations
Date published: 25/07/2013
Document ID:
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142
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Last reviewed:
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16/03/2009
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Revision No:
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10
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Approved by:
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..
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* -25/07/2013 12:27:06 PM