Safe manual handling techniques can sometimes be the difference between a good and bad day at work. Sometimes a person underestimates the most manageable tasks, not knowing how even the slightest carelessness can have harmful consequences. Irresponsiveness while performing manual handling tasks at a workplace can have harmful effects. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), over 34 percent of workplace injuries are because of musculoskeletal disorders caused by improper manual handling. So, for now, you might be convinced that manual handling must be taken seriously. Stay with us as in this blog; we will provide you with ten essential manual handling techniques that can come in handy for you.
What is manual handling?
Manual handling is any activity that involves the physical effort to move or support an object by:
- Lifting
- Pushing
- Pulling
- Manoeuvring
- Steadying
- Carrying
- Transporting
Not all manual handling tasks are dangerous, but most jobs require some tasks related to manual handling. Which put most of the workers at risk for manual handling injury.
Risks and injuries associated with manual handling
When used improper manual lifting techniques, the chances of facing injuries increases. Here are some examples of hazards and injuries to workers when handling objects:
- Acute injuries: Such as muscle strains, sprains, and fractures.
- Chronic pain: Repetitive manual handling tasks done improperly can cause chronic pain.
- Reduced mobility: Improper manual handling can limit a worker’s ability to perform their job.
- Reduced productivity: Improper manual handling can lead to a loss in productivity and higher absenteeism from work.
- Increased costs: Medical expenses and compensational claims from workplace injury would be an extra cost for the firm.
- Decreased morale: Injuries and pain while performing poor manual handling can lower workers’ morale.
- Overexertion: Workers may exert extra force and strain themselves while manually lifting objects.
- Awkward positions: Manual handling tasks requiring workers to reach, bend, or twist their bodies in uncomfortable situations. These actions can be a reason for their injury.
- Reduced quality of life: Workers suffering from injuries can have a poor quality of life. Injuries impact their ability to perform daily tasks outside of work.
Importance of safe manual handling techniques
Reduces the risk of injuries: Using proper manual handling techniques can help reduce the risk of injury.
- Improving efficiency: Using proper manual handling techniques can help complete tasks more efficiently. Which can save both time and resources for the organization.
- Enhancing worker morale: Workers who feel safe and supported are more likely to be motivated and engaged. Higher confidence and engagement increase job satisfaction for the workers.
- Complying with regulations: Many countries have made it mandatory for employers to provide their workers with a safe working environment. Safe manual handling techniques are an effective way of creating a secure workplace.
- Reduced costs: Loss of productivity, medical expenses, and compensational workers’ claims are some of the costs that the company bears from injuries in the workplace due to improper manual handling. Using proper manual handling techniques can help reduce the risk of these costs.
Manual handling techniques for safety
- Assessing the load and risks
Before carrying out a manual handling task, assessing the load and the possible risks is essential. Evaluating the load includes judging the weight, size, and shape. To minimize the risk, you must know the object you will handle manually. Following the assessment of the load, risk assessment is also an important step. Often it is hard for a person to assess the risk present as the harm can come in any way and form. Therefore, learning from online manual handling risk assessment courses is recommended. These courses make it easier for a person to analyse the possible threats that can arrive while performing a manual handling task.
- Using lifting equipment
Using mechanical equipment such as lifts, jacks, and trolleys to perform your manual handling task is always safer. This aiding equipment makes it easier to complete the task while reducing the risk of injury. Ensure you select the right equipment for the job and follow all the safety guidelines provided.
- Planning your lift carefully
It is essential to carefully plan your lift before attempting it. Making sure that the object is stable and your route is clear.
- Use proper body mechanics.
While manually handling objects, your body posture must be correct. You should always maintain a neutral spine, with your shoulders back and your feet shoulder-width apart. Keep the load close to your chest and bend your hips and knees when lifting. This technique will help distribute the weight of the shipment evenly and reduce the risk of injury.
- Using proper gripping techniques
Keeping your fingers and thumbs around the edges. It would be best to use both hands to grip the object. It will give you a firm grip and prevent the thing from falling.
- Team lifting
Lifting with a team can make the process safer and more efficient. Communication and coordination are essential aspects of team lifting.
- Avoid twisting and bending.
Twisting and bending while manually handling objects can increase the risk of injury. It would help if you always positioned yourself to face the load and pivoted your feet when turning.
- Resting
You must take a break if carrying a load for a long distance. Set the object down and rest and adjust your grip.
- Training
Training the workers on proper manual handling techniques is crucial for maintaining a safe workplace. Regular training ensures that everyone knows the correct methods and procedures.
- Communication
Do not hesitate to ask for help! If you are unsure how to handle a lead or experience pain or discomfort. Always seek help from a colleague or supervisor. It is crucial to focus on your well-being; seeking help when needed can help prevent injuries.
Understanding training
Training in manual handling is a crucial aspect of workplace safety. It equips workers with the knowledge and skills needed to handle objects manually. Thereby reducing the risks of accidents and injuries. Training is mandatory in most countries. Hence the responsibility to train employee falls on the shoulder of the employer. As well as being an essential practice for any task within the workplace. No one is perfect, and humans are always prone to make errors. Proper training will reduce the chances of these errors while performing tasks and guiding on other things.
Manual handling training courses are the perfect resources to train the employees responsible. Manual handling training does everything from teaching the techniques to the effective use of protective equipment. By undergoing this training, employees learn how to assess the weight and size of objects and the correct posture and lifting techniques. Moreover, manual handling training helps the employees understand the importance of team lifting. All these essential learning points help create teamwork and reduce the risk of injury.
Employer’s responsibility
- Providing adequate training: Employers are responsible for providing their employees with the necessary training. As in most countries, the provision of activity is a legal requirement. Thus, an employer must provide training to their employees irrespective of the work.
- Assessing workplace risk: Employers have the prime responsibility to assess the risk present in the workplace. Once the problems have been identified, steps should be taken to mitigate these risks.
- Safety equipment: Employers must provide their employees with appropriate equipment for work. These safety items include personal protective equipment, lifting aids, trolleys, and hoists. This safety equipment ensures the safety of the workers and creates a safe workplace.
Employee’s responsibility
- Attending training: Employees should follow the training provided and learn the proper techniques. This training also adds value to workers, making them skilled enough to perform their tasks without risks.
- Reporting any concerns: Workers must report any concerns related to manual handling to their employer. These include reporting injuries, near-misses, or hazardous manual handling practices in the workplace.
- Using the given safety equipment: Employees must use the given safety item by the employer. Not only it makes their job easy to perform, but it also ensures their safety.
Conclusion
Manual handling is essential in many workplaces and can lead to severe injuries if not done correctly. Hence both employers and employees need to understand their roles and act accordingly. For employers, it is a must that they train their employees, which ensures their safety and improves productivity while creating a safer workplace. For employees, it is vital that they attend these training and implies the precautions and techniques in their work practices. By taking the help of the ten manual handling techniques mentioned in this blog, workers can get an idea of how to perform their jobs. Remember, safety is everyone’s responsibility, and by working together, we can create a safer and happier workplace.
