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CONTENTS
1 Purpose ...................................................................................................................................................... 3
2 References ................................................................................................................................................. 3
3 Definitions ................................................................................................................................................... 3
4 Procedure Details ....................................................................................................................................... 3
4.1 General Manual Handling Information ............................................................................................... 3
4.2 basic principles of lifting ..................................................................................................................... 3
4.3 Risk Control Measures ...................................................................................................................... 4
4.3.1 Reduce bending movements by: ................................................................................................... 4
4.3.2 Reduce twisting movements by: .................................................................................................... 4
4.3.3 Reduce reaching motions by: ........................................................................................................ 4
4.3.4 Reduce lifting and lowering forces by: ........................................................................................... 4
4.3.5 Reduce pushing and pulling forces by: .......................................................................................... 5
4.3.6 Reduce carrying forces by: ............................................................................................................ 5
DOCUMENT CONTROL
Document ID Document Name Comment
08PR058C Manual Handling
DOCUMENT1 27-FEB-18 2 OF 6
MANUAL HANDLING
SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM PROCEDURE
1 PURPOSE
To provide a standard work practice for the identification of risks associated with manual handling tasks and
the implementation of safe work methods to manage these risks, as required by legislation.
2 REFERENCES
Worksafe WA Code of Practice for Manual Handling
3 DEFINITIONS
Shall and should The word “shall” is to be understood as mandatory. The word “should” as
recommended.
Manual Handling Any activity requiring the use of force exerted by a person to lift, lower, push, pull,
carry or otherwise move, hold or restrain any object.
4 PROCEDURE DETAILS
4.1 GENERAL MANUAL HANDLING INFORMATION
Manual handling of materials is the largest single cause of industrial injuries. Where ever practicable a lifting
aid shall be used to eliminate the need for manual handling.
All personnel move or lift things at times, either at work or at home, sometimes without much thought of the
way they set about it.
But like all other tasks there is a safe and unsafe way. Before lifting any load, the job should be sized up – a
little thought can save a lot of effort.
Because of the way the human body is constructed, most of the joints are at a severe mechanical
disadvantage during lifting, especially the spine. If this is subjected to excessive strain over a period of time,
it can lead to serious back problems.
1. Position of Feet
Position the feet apart, about as wide as the hips, with one foot forward. This ensures balance.
Lift with the leg muscles, these are stronger and better suited for the job.
3. Correct Grip
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MANUAL HANDLING
SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM PROCEDURE
Use the base of the fingers and palms of the hand. This reduces stress in the arms.
4. Tuck Chin In
Always look straight ahead, avoid turning the head to the side. This helps to lock the spine and reduces
stress in the shoulder and back muscles.
5. Elbows In
The following criteria shall be used to reduce risk and improve Manual Handling techniques.
using lift tables, forklifts, cranes, hoists, balancers, drum and barrel dumpers, work dispensers,
elevating conveyors and similar aids
raising the work level
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MANUAL HANDLING
SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM PROCEDURE
using conveyors, air bearing, ball castor tables, slides, chutes and similar aids
using forklifts, two or four-wheel hand trucks, trolleys or similar aids
When moving or lifting loads; as many of these principles should be used as practicable.
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MANUAL HANDLING
SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM PROCEDURE
Manual tasks may need to be reviewed to devise an alternative way, which requires less effort. This can be
achieved by the use of a JHA.
DOCUMENT1 27-FEB-18 6 OF 6