An Introduction To Manual Handling

The body is a complex structure made up of bones, joints and muscles. Their interaction produces movement of body parts that enables us to carry out all manners of activity involved in daily life.
The spinal column and its combined movement is the key to a successful activity. Damage it and the result is pain to a greater of lesser extent. Look after it and you will be rewarded by healthy, pain free movement. Because of its structure the spinal column is vulnerable, it is in your best interest to look after it.

Regulation 68 of the 2007 General Application Regulations defines manual handling as follows:
“Manual handling of loads” means the transporting or supporting of a load by one or more employees which includes lifting, putting down, pushing, pulling, carrying or moving a load, which, by reason of its characteristics or of unfavourable ergonomic conditions, involves risk, particularly of back injury to employees."

The regulations apply only to the manual handling of loads which involves risk of injury to the team member. There will be situations where handling will not involve risk e.g. the handling of a light load (5kg) at waist level. In other situations, a risk assessment of an activity may result in changes to a work system which eliminates the need for handling above shoulder height but still requires handling at a safe height. The term ‘load’ includes any object requiring to be lifted.

Regulation 69 imposes duties on employers to:
"Take appropriate organisational measures, or use the appropriate means, in particular mechanical equipment, to avoid the need for the manual handling of loads by employees."

A risk assessment of all manual handling tasks is required before making an informed decision on what manual handling tasks need to be avoided or reduced. Brown Thomas & Arnotts have dedicated in-house Manual Handling trainers who are available to assist with the Risk Assessment process.
The risk assessment process must:

  • Identify the manual handling tasks that need to be assessed.
  • Have a detailed understanding of how the task is performed.
  • Have a detailed understanding of what the task is.
  • Identify the risk factors
  • Document solution & action plan
  • Review the effectiveness of the control measures put in place.

Based on previous risk assessments the company has provided a range of manual handling aids which includes, forklifts, pallet trucks, flat bed trolleys, hand carts, dollies and various sized roller rails. Training for forklifts is provided & certification issued to those required to use them. Use of various other items as listed is covered as part of manual handling training.

Training

Manual Handling Training is provided in two parts:

Part A is an online module designed to teach us about the structure of the body, relevant legislation and the basic principles of Manual Handling. All team members are required to undergo this module at the end of which is an assessment section designed to test your memory and understanding of what you have been taught.

Part B is a practical session and is provided in a live working environment i.e. a stockroom location. This is designed to provide training for most day to day manual handling tasks in a retail/stockroom environment. It includes the use of relevant Manual Handing aids e.g. flatbed trolleys, roller rails etc.

Basic Principles of Lifting

No matter what you lift, these simple rules should always be applied:

  • Assess the area, the load, the individual and the task.
  • Bend your knees.
  • Ensure a broad stable base.
  • Have a firm palm grip.
  • Keep your back straight – not necessarily erect.
  • Keep the load close to the centre of gravity.
  • Keep your arms in line with your trunk.
  • Point your feet in the direction of your movement.

Before attempting to lift anything, ask yourself:

  • Do I need to do this lift?
  • Can I do this lift safely?
  • Is a mechanical aid available?
  • Is the area free from obstruction and do I have easy access?
  • Can I use a straight on approach?
  • Do I have a firm footing on a level and non-slippery surface?
  • Is this a single person lift or will it require more than one?

Bend the Knees:

This is necessary to enable you to get into a flat back position. It facilitates lifting with the muscles of your legs instead of your back muscles.

Broad Stable Base:

Your feet should be approximately hip distance apart. You should feel stable and safe with both feet on the floor.

Firm Palmer Grip:

No matter what you are lifting, the grip you use should be firm and comfortable. Make sure the palm of your hand makes contact with the load.

Back Straight:

Flatten your back by pulling in your stomach muscles and tilting your pelvis backward to flatten your lumbar spine. The curve in your back should be reduced and in a neutral position.

Arms Close to the Trunk:

Your elbows should be kept ass close to your side as possible. This encourages stability and minimizes the effects of the weight being lifted by bringing it closer to your body’s centre of gravity. Remember – Never lift your arms!

Weight Close to the Centre of Gravity:

This reduces the stress and force acting on your spine.

Point Feet in the Direction of Movement:

This ensures a straight on approach and eliminates the tendency to bend forwards and sideways. Your stability is increased and it allows easier transfer of weight from one foot to another. Always remember to ‘Lift with your Legs’.

Remember, the key to successful lifting is to carry out a proper assessment, plan the move and prepare both the area and the object to be lifted.

If you need any advice or support, please contact Lorraine Bedford, Group Health & Safety Manager on (086) 602 2235 or (01) 605 6653.

Alternatively, please contact the Manual Handling Trainer(s) for your store/area.