What do the principles of safer manual handling help you to do? 
The key principles of manual handling help us to take a measured approach to transporting or supporting a load by hand or bodily force. 
Using a step-by-step approach to planning manual handling activities, helps us determine the level of injury risk and allows us to implement suitable mitigation measures to reduce that risk to an acceptable level. 
Remember, it is best to try eliminating and reducing the manual handling required before you proceed. 
Let’s move on to look at the 5 Manual Handling Principles, 
 
5 Key Manual Handling Principles 
 
1. Plan 
The thing we all forget to do, which is perhaps most important, make a PLAN! 
Before you lift the object, you should trace the entire path of travel to the final location to make sure the entire way is clear for the load. Tripping over obstacles or having to put down the load midway are hazards that can easily be avoided. 
Just looking at an object can give you some idea of whether another team member or mechanical assistance will be needed to move the object. 
Many packing labels will specify weight, and the size and shape of the package can indicate if a truck or dolly will be necessary. 
Usually it’s wise not to lift cumbersome or objects heavier than around 25kgs/55lbs (or less depending on your strength) without help. Know your limits, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed. 
It is always preferable to lift and put down a heavy object close to the height at which it will be carried. Appropriately stage/prepare materials that must be moved, where possible to do so. 
 
2. Position 
Approach the load evenly, with your feet about shoulder-width apart. Move the centre of your body as close as possible to its centre before lowering yourself to lift the object. 
Get a Grip: Whenever possible, use handholds or handles to maximize the power of the worker. 
Use two hands whenever possible and encircle the object). 
 
3. Pick 
As you move the object upward, maintain a natural motion, keeping the load as close as possible to your spine. 
Engage the muscles of your torso to stabilize your spine and maintain steady breathing while your legs and buttocks perform most of the lifting work. 
 
Your feet should only move to keep the load and your torso aligned and neutral. 
Power Zone: The “power zone” or preferred work zone is the area of your body horizontally between your shoulders and vertically between the middle of your thighs and centre of your chest. Keeping heavy loads in this area helps ensure your limbs and trunk are not forced into awkward postures and an increased likelihood of injury. 
 
4. Proceed (with caution) 
As you carry the load, keep the spine upright and avoid twisting, bending and reaching. Rather than twisting at the waist or along the spine, step with one foot in the new direction. Then, allow the rest of your body and the load to follow. 
Avoid carrying loads that interfere with a clear view of your travel path or have a spotter make sure no obstacles present a tripping hazard while the object is in motion. 
 
5. Place 
When you reach the destination, lower the object in the reverse of how you lifted it. Never drop a heavy load, shove it into place or jerk it around. 
 
Smooth, steady, deliberate motions protect you from unnecessary strain and injury. Lifting, carrying and putting down a load with care and consideration helps prevent unnecessary musculoskeletal injuries. 
As with any activity in the workplace, it is important to ensure that your employees are adequately trained and competent to perform their tasks. 
 
If you require any further assistance, please contact us at hello@influentialmg.com or 07799656303 
Tagged as: ManualHandling
Share this post:

Leave a comment: 

Our site uses cookies. For more information, see our cookie policy. Accept cookies and close
Reject cookies Manage settings