Manual Handling

The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 is the statutory instrument that governs the manual handling of loads in the workplace.

"Manual handling of loads" means any transporting or supporting of a load by one or more workers, including lifting, putting down, pulling, pushing, carrying or moving of a load which, by reason of its characteristics or of unfavourable ergonomic conditions, involves a risk of injury to workers.

Prevent Risk of Injury With a Goods Lift

One of the easiest ways to avoid injury in the workplace, is to ensure that you have a good manual handling technique. As a general rule, never lift a load that is too heavy or large for you to manage, and avoid lifting heavy objects if you are pregnant or have a weak back or joints. Factors that should be considered when lifting include:

• Can the load be easily grasped with both hands?
• How many people will be lifting the object?
• Does the lifter need to twist during the operation?
• Is the lifting taking place in reasonable working conditions?

To help avoid injury, invest in a goods lift or a dumbwaiter, and take the pain and strain out of lifting! The lift will do the job for you, and can carry objects far heavier than the average person can.

Find Out More

Note: This rough guide has been put together by movemanSKG. It is not a comprehensive guide to manual handling. Follow the links below to see various authoritative articles and publications:

The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992

Getting to grips with manual handling, a short guide for employers [PDF file information] Health and Safety Executive (HSE), ISBN 0717617548.