Manual Handling

 

PREVENTING MANUAL HANDLING INJURY: 

 Hello all! I know most of this stuff is common sense, but sometimes even I need to be reminded! 

After all, one painless reminder in advance has got to be preferable to a daily painful one after the event?

PRE-LIFT TIPS	LIFTING FROM GROUND LEVEL	LIFTING FROM OVERHEAD	LIFTING FROM A SHELF or  DESK	PUTTING LOADS DOWN	TIPS WHEN CARRYING	MOVING CARTS
Think about the task before doing anything. Are you able to do it alone? Or do you need help or mechanical assistance? Does the size or shape of the load present any problem? Will you have to turn while carrying the load? Is the route you will take clear of obstructions & slip, trip, or fall hazards? Do you need a back support belt? If so, are you wearing it properly?	Get as close as possible to the load. Bend your knees, not your back. Get a good grip on the object and test its weight. Keep the load close to your body and lift using only your legs. Be aware of your balance and what part of your body is doing the work. It should be your legs.	Make certain you are standing on a stable surface before you start the lift. Test the load to be sure you can lift it safely. Bring the object off the shelf slowly, and make sure you keep your balance. While keeping control of the load, bring it down to waist level. Whatever the task, GET HELP for heavy or awkward loads!	Pull the load close to your body and test it for weight. Shift the weight of the load to your legs by keeping it close to your body. Avoid reaching and lifting at the same time.	Bend your knees, not your back. Put down the corner or edge of the object closest to you first. Keep your fingers out from under the load	Look ahead to make certain the way is clear. Put the load down if it becomes too heavy or unstable. Avoid stairs when ever possible. If unavoidable, use the handrail or wall or to help you maintain balance. Have someone open doors or gates for you. Change direction by moving your feet not your hips. Keep shoulders, hips and feet pointing in the same direction. Never twist at the waist while carrying a load.	Remember to push, not pull whenever possible. Position the load so that your legs supply the force. Use hands and arms to control and direct the load. Keep hands & fingers inside the load whenever possible, to avoid crushing them against walls or door frames. Watch for pinch points on carts, dollies or hoists.