Why this matters
A worker with a serious back injury might never work again. The economic cost to the worker (lost earnings, ongoing treatment) and to the business (lost time, retraining replacements) far exceeds the cost of doing manual handling properly.
Key hazards and controls
Hazard 1: Lifting loads heavier than body capacity allows
Control: Two-person lifts above 25kg. Lifting equipment for heavier loads
Hazard 2: Awkward postures (stooping, twisting, reaching)
Control: Plan layouts so loads are at working height. Avoid twisting under load
Hazard 3: Repetitive movements
Control: Job rotation, regular breaks, mechanical aids for repetitive tasks
Hazard 4: Unstable or awkwardly shaped loads
Control: Plan stability before lifting. Get help with awkward loads
Hazard 5: Working at floor level for extended periods
Control: Knee pads, kneeling boards, frequent position changes
Key messages
- 1.Think before you lift - is there an alternative?
- 2.Test the load before fully committing to the lift
- 3.Get close, get a good grip, lift with legs not back
- 4.Hernias and back injuries are almost always preventable
- 5.Two people for anything over 25kg
Signs of trouble (for supervisors)
Things to spot during site walks that suggest the message has not landed:
- !Workers complaining of back pain regularly
- !Workers found lifting loads alone that should be two-person
- !Pallets stacked higher than chest height
- !Materials stored at floor level requiring constant stooping
- !Lifting equipment available but not being used
Questions to ask workers
Use these in your daily walkrounds and toolbox talks:
- Q.What is the heaviest single load you handle today?
- Q.Where are the two-person-lift items stored?
- Q.Are mechanical lifting aids available where needed?
- Q.Have you been trained on the correct lifting technique?
- Q.When did you last have your manual handling training refreshed?
UK legislation
- SSManual Handling Operations Regulations 1992
- SSHealth and Safety at Work etc Act 1974
- SSCDM 2015
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