Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992

 

The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 aims to ensure that all manual handling tasks are carried out safely. Safe manual handling is defined as: Transporting or supporting a load including lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, carrying or moving by hand or bodily force safely.

 

Under this act, employers have an obligation to provide suitable PPE, training and manual handling aids in order to reduce the likelihood of injury when moving objects. Under the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 employers have a requirement to carry out a risk assessment on any tasks involving manual handling and implement appropriate controls.

 

Employees have a legal responsibility to work safely and use correctly any lifting aids provided. As a result employees should never lift an object which they do not feel strong enough or well enough to lift.

 

Poor manual handling may result in pain and injury. Injuries which may occur through poor manual handling could include:

• Cuts

• Fractures

• Broken bones

• Pulled muscles

• Dislocated discs

• Hernia 

 

While maximum weight limits are set you should never lift something you don’t feel comfortable attempting.

 

Safe Manual Handling Guidance

 To minimise the risk of injury through poor manual handling the following guidance should be followed:

        Assess the risks of injury and possible control measures.

        Avoid heavy lifts from off the floor

        Ensure that the pathway whilst carrying a load is clear.

        If the load is heavy can it be split down, or use assistance

        Use a trolley or barrow to carry a load if possible.

        When lifting keep the back straight and bend the legs.

        Carry a load close to the body.

        Avoid twisting movements whilst carrying a load.

        Plan ahead, keep items at table height if possible.

        Know the limitations, do not lift items which are beyond them.

       When using mechanical means, push rather than pull.

       If pain or discomfort is felt from a task stop and seek advice.

 

 

 

 

 

Lifting dogs.

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Moving large dogs is difficult. Where possible hydraulics, stairs or ramps should be used.