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MANUAL HANDLING

Manual handling is not just about lifting heavy objects. It includes any activity requiring the use of force exerted by a person to lift, lower, push, pull, hold or restrain a person, animal or thing.

Overexertion includes occupational overuse syndrome (OOS) and manual handling.

Placing boxes and other items on shelves, operating levers on machinery, using cutting tools, writing and keyboarding are some examples of manual handling tasks.

Manual handling injuries include:

• strains and sprains;
• neck and back injury;
• slips, falls and crush incidents;
• cuts, bruises and broken bones;
• hernia; and
• occupational overuse syndrome (OOS), once known as RSI. This involves tasks which are repetitive or use small muscle groups.

Most manual handling injuries can be prevented by instruction, training and supervision. Safe work procedures should be prepared by employers, with the help of employees. Special care is required for the needs of young and inexperienced workers.

It is the employer's responsibility to provide you with safe work procedures, and with instruction, training and supervision for manual handling tasks.

You should be informed and trained in:

• safe manual handling methods;
• specific manual handling hazards;
• safe work procedures;
• using manual handling aids; and
• the right to ask for help.

Ways to reduce the risk:

• follow the safe working procedure provided by your employer;
• lighten loads (break loads into smaller quantities);
• do not put items on the floor that will have to be picked up later (double handling);
• use steps to reach or place items on high shelves;
• reduce bending, twisting, reaching movements;
• prevent muscle strain and fatigue. This includes warming up before working, allocating time for rest breaks, and allowing time to gradually get used to a new job; and
• ask for help if necessary.