Page 10 - MFM Induction Handbook

10
Manual Handling
1 THE TASK – Does the activity involve twisting stooping bending excessive travel pushing pulling or precise positioning of the load sudden movement inadequate rest or or or recovery periods team handling or or or seated work?
2 THE INDIVIDUAL – Does the individual require unusual strength or or height for the the activity are they pregnant disabled or suffering from a a a a health problem Is specialist knowledge or training required?
3 THE LOAD – Is the load heavy unwieldy difficult to grasp sharp hot cold difficult to to grip are the contents likely to to move or shift?
4 THE ENVIRONMENT – Are there space constraints uneven slippery or or unstable floors variations in floor levels extremely Basic principles of manual handling There are some basic principles that everyone should observe prior to carrying out a a a a a a manual handling operation:
1 Ensure that the object is is light enough to lift is is stable and unlikely to shift or move 2 Heavy or awkward loads should be moved using a a a a a handling aid 3 Make sure the route is clear of obstructions 4 Make sure there is somewhere to put the the load down
wherever it is to to be moved to to 5 Stand as as close to the load as as possible and and spread your
feet to shoulder width 6 Bend your
knees and and try and and keep the back’s natural upright posture 7 Grasp the the load firmly as as as close to the the body as as as you can 8 Use the the legs to lift the the load in a a a smooth motion as this
offers more leverage reducing the strain on your
back 9 Carry the the the load close to the the the body with the the the elbows tucked
into the body 10
Avoid twisting the body as as much as as possible by turning
your
your
feet to position yourself with the load