Manual handling of loads
Manual handling of loads (MHL), manual material handling (MMH) involves the use of the human body to lift, lower, fill, empty, or carry loads.[1] The load can be animate (a person or animal) or inanimate (an object). Most manufacturing or distribution systems require some manual handling tasks. Though decreasing lately, the rate of workers in the EU-25 that report carrying or moving heavy loads, is still high (34.5%), reaching 38.0% in the EU-10. When performed incorrectly or excessively, these tasks may expose workers to physical risk factors, fatigue, and injury.[2] A variety of MMH techniques and tools exist to alleviate these potential problems.[3] In the UK all organisations have a duty to protect employees from injury from manual handling activities and this is outlined in The Manual Handling Operations (MHO) Regulations 1992. [4]
Safe manual handling techniques
Ergonomic intervention in manual handling can decrease injuries and increase worker productivity.[1]
Climbing
When climbing with a load, safe material handling includes maintaining contact with the ladder or stairs at three points (two hands and a foot or both feet and a hand). Bulky loads would require a second person or a mechanical device to assist.[3]
References
- ^ a b Cheung, Zin, Rick Hight, Ken Jackson, Jitan Patel, and Fran Wagner, (2007). Ergonomic Guidelines for Manual Material Handling DHHS Publication 2007-131. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. Retrieved October 7, 2008.
- ^ Material Handling Industry of America, (2001). Publications & resources: 2001 progress in material handling practice Archived 2008-04-22 at archive.today. Retrieved October 7, 2008.
- ^ a b Triano, John J., and Nancy C. Selby, (2006, September 27). Manual material handling to prevent back injury. Retrieved October 7, 2008.
- ^ http://www.citation.co.uk/health-and-safety/manual-handling Manual Handling