Safe Handling
Did You Know?
- That more than a quarter of all accidents reported each year are associated with poor manual handling procedures
- Although injuries appear to be attributed to a single handling incident, they are more likely to occur as a result of cumulative trauma
|
 |
About "Manual Handling"
Manual Handling covers the transporting or supporting of loads (including lifting, putting down, pushing, pulling, or carrying) by hand or by bodily force.
Poor manual handling techniques may result in the following common injuries:
- Overexertion – a load which is beyond the capability of the handler.
- Cumulative – from static postures or repetitive lifting.
- Accidental – usually as a result of a combination of the above.
Anatomy
 |
- The spine is made up of 24 vertebrae, 7 Cervical, 12 Thoracic, and 5 Lumbar.
- The spine is supported by ligaments and muscles.
- Intervertebral discs lie between each vertebrae. They move forward, backward and side to side to allow flexibility of the whole spinal column and also to act as a shock absorber.
|
Lumber Vertebrae
 |
Body Mechanics
Adopting correct body mechanics and safe techniques for lifting may have a significant long term impact on reducing injury.
When lifting a weight in a stooped position, the leverage on the back increases the forces in the muscles by up to 10 times greater than the weight of the load.
The combination of the tension in the muscles and the compression of the spine may result in damage.
In addition to lifting posture it is important to hold the weight close to the body as the further away from the body the weight is held, the greater the stress on the spine
Before handling a load, consider the following:
- The Task
- Is the task necessary?
- The Load
- Consider the size, weight, shape, texture, temperature, handholds.
- Your Capabilities
- Do you require assistance?
- The Environment
- Check for obstacles, slippery floors, adequate lighting, temperature and humidity.
- Always wear appropriate clothing and suitable shoes.
When handling a load – Remember to:
- Get close to the object being handled
- Ensure you have a good grip
- Always keep your back straight and bend your knees
- Move your feet and avoid twisting at all costs
- Take regular rest breaks
|
|
