Manual handling, the act of moving objects by hand, is a common task across various industries. While this type of work can be beneficial to workers and employers, it can also be a source of injury. The statistics on work-related injuries show that lifting, pushing, pulling, or bending was the most common cause of injury or illness, accounting for 24% of all cases in the 2021-22 financial year. Moreover, statistics on manual handling injuries in Australia reveal that claims related to body stress injuries accounted for the highest percentage, standing at 37%.
Let's delve into the world of manual handling by exploring its importance, risks, and providing practical guidance on how to execute manual handling tasks safely and efficiently.
Manual handling, or what we call manual tasks, includes any activity where you use your body to lift, lower, push, pull, carry, move, hold, or restrain anyone, anything, or even animals. It is a common task in many workplaces, including construction, healthcare, and retail. However, some manual handling tasks can be hazardous and may cause injuries or illnesses. Examples of hazardous manual handling tasks include lifting heavy and large objects, using a jackhammer, working on a conveyor line, and entering data into a computer
Here are more examples of hazardous manual handling tasks:
Manual handling hazards refer to potential risks and injuries that can occur due to the manual lifting, carrying, lowering, or moving of heavy objects. These tasks can lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), which affect the muscles, nerves, blood vessels, ligaments, and tendons. Here are some common manual handling hazards:
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a significant health issue in Australia, affecting millions of people. Known as MSDs, these are injuries or diseases that affect our body's movement or musculoskeletal system. MSD isn't a result of an injury caused by crushing, entrapment, or cutting resulting from the mechanical operation of plant machinery. Instead, it arises either suddenly or over time due to various factors impacting the musculoskeletal system.
MSDs are responsible for a significant burden of disease in Australia, ahead of both mental health and unintentional injuries. Low back pain (LBP) was the most prevalent musculoskeletal condition and was the leading driver of disability burden in Australia. The recognised leading cause of MSDs is manual handling.
MSDs can manifest in several ways, such as:
Given the risks associated with manual handling, it's important to understand the importance of proper technique. The human body is more precious than any piece of machinery. Proper manual handling helps ensure its protection and preservation. Here are some benefits of proper manual handling:
Incorrect manual handling can lead to a wide range of injuries and health problems, especially MSDs. This can have a serious impact on an individual's health and well-being. Proper manual handling can help prevent MSDs, as well as other injuries that may arise due to incorrect techniques.
Good manual handling techniques are essential for efficiency in the workplace. Using correct posture and body mechanics helps reduce strain and fatigue during manual tasks, allowing workers to complete their tasks quickly and safely. This helps increase productivity and efficiency, while also reducing the risk of accidents or injuries.
Proper lifting and carrying techniques can protect workers from back injuries and other harm. Keeping the load close to the body and lifting with the thigh muscles rather than the back are examples of safe manual handling.
Proper training in manual handling fosters a work environment that is not only safer and healthier but also promotes happiness. By prioritising the safety and well-being of employees, employers demonstrate their value for their workforce.
Manual handling training supports pre-existing procedures, such as rules on how to use certain equipment safely. Knowing how to use tools and equipment correctly can help workers stay safe and avoid accidents. This is especially important when working with heavy or bulky objects, such as furniture or machinery.
While the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act serves as the primary health and safety legislation in many Australian states and territories, there are variations. For instance, Victoria operates under the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act. It's crucial to be aware of these nuances and to always consult the respective state's regulatory body for detailed information.
The primary legislation provides a framework to secure the health and safety of workers. It outlines the responsibilities of a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) to ensure the health and safety of workers, particularly in managing risks associated with manual tasks.
These are specific provisions that reinforce the WHS Act. In the context of manual handling, these regulations may involve identifying hazardous manual tasks, assessing related risks, and implementing control measures to manage those risks.
This code offers practical advice for PCBUs to navigate risks tied to hazardous manual tasks. These can range from tasks involving repetitive motions and prolonged postures to those requiring significant force. The code delves deep into the risk management process, providing insights on control measures and guidelines for designing tasks, workstations, layouts, and environments.
PCBU (Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking): PCBUs are tasked with ensuring the health and safety risks stemming from hazardous manual tasks are either eliminated or minimised if that's not feasible. They are also responsible for furnishing workers with relevant information, training, and supervision concerning safe manual handling practices.
Workers: Every worker is obligated to prioritise their health and safety and to act in a manner that doesn't jeopardise the well-being of others. This includes adhering to prescribed procedures and utilising equipment that supports safe manual handling.
About hazardous manual tasks, health and safety duties are held by:
The safest and best technique for performing the task is determined by considering the environment, the ability of the handler to perform the task, and the nature of the load (animate or inanimate). Risks can be identified and assessed in the workplace by following these steps:
Before lifting or moving an object, always remember to follow the TILE approach to assess the surrounding area carefully. This includes checking the task, individual, load, and environment. TILE means Task, Individual, Load, Environment.
Use correct lifting techniques. This usually involves keeping the load close to the body, using the legs to lift (not the back), and avoiding twisting or jerking movements.
Where possible, use mechanical aids or equipment like trolleys, forklifts, or hoists to move heavy items. This reduces the risk of injury to handlers and helps improve efficiency. Protective clothing can also be used to protect employees from potential hazards such as cuts, scrapes, or burns.
Wear comfortable clothing that allows free movement, and shoes that have flat heels, covered toes, and provide good support to the feet. Articles of jewellery that could become entangled should be removed
Workers should receive adequate training on safe manual handling techniques and the use of any relevant equipment. Employers should ensure that the training provided is adequate and effective and employees should take steps to stay informed about the latest safety regulations. Manual handling training typically includes:
Employers should ensure that there is effective communication between all parties involved in manual handling activities. This includes supervisors, workers, and other persons who may be affected by the tasks being performed. Communication should include information on:
You can also conduct regular toolbox talks to ensure that everyone is aware of the safety regulations and best practices for manual handling tasks.
Good ergonomics and workplace design are essential in manual handling tasks. Ergonomics is a key factor in ensuring safe manual handling at work. It's about tailoring workplaces, systems, and tasks to suit the worker's abilities and limitations, which can boost productivity while reducing the risk of injuries.
SafetyDocs by SafetyCulture is a leading provider of documented Workplace Health and Safety products in Australia. We offer a range of safety templates and tools to help businesses comply with safety regulations and standards. We can help you complete the manual handling safety process with our comprehensive library of safety documents. Our documents are tailored for various industries, government requirements, and workplace contexts.
With SafetyDocs, you can get started with a variety of easy-to-use tools and templates, including Manual Handling Risk Assessments, Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS), Job Safety Analysis (JSA) forms, Toolbox Talks, and more. Check out the following link to explore our range of safety documents for manual handling:
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Our team of experts is dedicated to providing accurate and informative content. Craig Cruickshank, our senior HSEQ advisor at SafetyDocs by SafetyCulture has reviewed this blog post to ensure the highest level of quality.
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Please note that the above information is provided as a comment only and should not be relied on as professional, legal or financial advice.
