Page 189 - IGC BOOK

Loads may be liquids which are in constant
movement while being lifted. Large loads affect the
vision causing obstruction while moving. This
makes the chances of slipping or tripping. Some
loads by their nature are sharp, hot, or slippery
which makes handling difficult.

The general principles of controlling the risk
presented by the load are to make the load:

• lighter or less bulky
• easier to grasp
• more stable
• evenly stacked

If the load comes in from elsewhere, ensure the supplier to provide handles or make it as
smaller packages.

Individual

General health, age, sex, height and build all make a difference to manual handling capability.
People generally are stronger in their early 20s; strength slowly declines until the mid-40s when
it declines more rapidly. Individual capability needs to be constantly monitored through
supervision Employees must inform managers or
supervisors if their ability to lift or move loads changes
even on a temporary basis to enable changes and
adaptations to be made.

The general principles of controlling the risk by managing
individual capability:

• Individual capability must always be given priority
• Employees must be given full details on the tasks they
will be expected to undertake
• Where higher risks of manual handling injuries are identified specific training must be given

• Procedures to protect new or expectant mothers must be in place
• Employees must be given information on the tasks they are likely to face in the workplace

• Policy and procedures must be adjusted to address temporary capability issues
• Work clothing and personal protective equipment (PPE), when worn must be suitable for
manual handling activities.

Task

The task needs to be assessed to determine the most suitable control measures to be
introduced. The best way of controlling the risk presented task is by automating the system.
However, this may be a costly solution and may not fit in with the workplace.

ENSIGN | Unit IG2 – Element 6 – Musculoskeletal 13
Health