Hazardous manual tasks are the most common causes of workplace injuries with 29% of injuries at work relating to manual handling. We wanted to provide businesses with some key tips that can help you reduce the likelihood of injuries in your workplace.
Reducing Manual Handling Injuries – Hazardous manual task are the most common causes of workplace injuries with manual handling being the cause of 29% of workplace injuries in NSW. Manual Handling, also referred to as manual tasks is any activity that requires lifting, moving, pushing, pulling, carrying, holding or restraining any object, including a person or an animal. The most common injuries caused by incorrect manual handling are musculosketal disorders (MSDs) with these injuries being disabling and costly. Therefore, educating your workers on proper manual handling techniques is vital for the longevity of an employee’s health and for reducing workplace injuries.
By implementing the following 7 steps in your workplace can assist you in reducing the likelihood of an injury as a result of manual handling:
- Observe and assess the load – Is it safe to lift yourself? Call for assistance if required
- Be front on with the load and squat down to pick up the load instead of bending your back
- Obtain a firm grip at the bottom of the object or its handles
- Hug the load and straighten your knees (Avoid bending your back during this step)
- Keep your head up when lifting/carrying the load
- Don’t twist your body when carrying the load as it may overload your spine and cause injury
- Do not carry the load on your shoulder
If you need assistance in identifying the potential hazards related to manual tasks and implementing practical solutions to reduce the risk of MSDs contact ABILITY GROUP on and one our experienced physiotherapist will be able to help you.
For support or advice, please contact our RTW & Injury / Claim Management specialists for assistance.