Element 4 Manual and mechanical handling hazards and control part 1

This element looks at the associated hazards of manual and mechanical handling and how to control these.
Manual Handling
Manual handling on a construction is an activity it is impossible to remove, and due to this it is also one that causes more injuries than any other single hazards. Many times people may be unaware of injuries they are causing but will be felt in later life.
The Manual Handling Operations Regulations state that manual handling risks should be assessed in a four step approach
L. I. T. E.

L. is for LOAD, how heavy is the load, can other means be adopted, can the process be automated, ensure where possible load are stored at waist height, how heavy is the load and is there difficulty in holding the load are the contents stable.

I. INDIVIDUAL capability, all people are different in their capabilities when it come to manual handling, some are tall and some are stronger than others, major difference occur when it come to the sex of the individual with the regulations indicating the max load for a female to lift a load at elbow height close to the torso would be approx 13KG where for a mal the max load is 25 KG. Does the operative require any special training?

T. The TASK should be carefully scrutinised before lifting, things like does the operation require the movement of the load, how far does the load need to travel, would twisting or turning be involved. Can the loaded be lifted safely in the area, can the load be stored and stacked safely, does the task require high lift (overhead) all these thing should be considered before the task is completed. A full risk assessment should be completed.

E. Working ENVIRONMENT , are there physical constraints in the area, is the surface clean level free from trips or other fall hazards, adequate lighting and temperature conditions should be taken into account.

Consideration should also be give to other types of manual handing rather than just lifting. Pushing, pulling and carrying of loads are factors that can cause injury . it is recommended that recognised training be given to persons who are involved in manual handling.