Manual handling
26 August 2021
Moving loads by hand is a common enough task in many workplaces, but it is not without risk to those involved. Typical injuries include sprains, strains, cuts and even fractures.
Manual handling includes the transporting or supporting of loads by hand or the use of bodily force. This includes lifting, putting down, pushing, pulling, carrying or moving loads. The types of loads handled can vary widely. Examples include boxes, furniture and equipment.
You may need to:
- identify circumstances where manual handling is required
- avoid hazardous manual handling tasks so far as is reasonably practicable
- decide if there is a risk of injury
- complete specific risk assessments for any hazardous task that cannot be avoided
- take additional precautions if existing ones are inadequate
- make sure that staff know how to use any equipment provided or lift safely, providing certain information is some circumstances
- document your arrangements for preventing injury from manual handling tasks, keeping certain records.