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Manual Handling – Principles of Safe Lifting

Dr. Ann MaconnachieDepartmental Safety Officer

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Manual Handling

• Three components

– Planning the lift– Lifting technique– Moving the load

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Manual handling – before you start

• Stop and think - Plan the lift

• Does it need to be carried?

• Where is it going?• Is it heavy?• Does it need more

than one person?• Are you dressed for

the job?

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Manual Handling – lifting technique

• Place feet apart

• Placing one leg forward will improve balance and control

• Try sliding the load towards you first if you have to stretch

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Manual Handling – lifting technique

• Bend your knees NOT your back

• Keep shoulders level and in line with your hips

• Avoid jerking movements

• Lift head then your back

• Grip with your palms

• Keep arms close to your body

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Manual Handling – Moving the load

• Keep the load close to the body

• Keep the heaviest side nearest your body

• When pulling or pushing use your body weight to move the load

• Avoid twisting your body when turning

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Manual Handling

• Maximum recommended load depends on the height it is being lifted or lowered

• The lower weights are guidelines for women