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APPENDIX
APPENDIX B
Description
Manual handling means any transporting or supporting
of a load (including lifting, putting down, pushing, pulling,
carrying or moving) by hand or bodily force.
Scope
This assessment will cover the largest unit within each
product range. For specific weights and dimensions please
refer to technical data section.
Main Hazards
Vision may not be clear due to the size of the products.
Adopting an incorrect method of lifting may cause injury,
attempting to lift these products will require help from others.
(Team lifts)
Control Measures
Manual lifting procedure
The lift, key factors in safe lifting are:
a.
Balance
b.
Position of back
c.
Positioning of the arms and body
d.
The hold
e.
Taking the lead for team lifts
a.
Balance -
Since balance depends essentially upon
the position of the feet, they should be apart about
hip breadth with one foot advanced giving full
balance sideways and forward without tension. In
taking up this position, lifting is done by bending at
the knees instead of the hips and the muscles that
are brought into use are those of the thigh and not
the back.
b.
Position of back
- Straight - not necessary vertical.
The spine must be kept rigid, this coupled with a
bent knee position, allows the centre line of gravity
of the body to be over the weight so reducing strain.
c.
Positioning of arms and body
- The further arms
are away from the side, the greater the strain on the
shoulders, chest and back. Keep elbows close to the
body arms should be straight.
d.
The hold
- Before lifting ensure you have a good
hold.
e.
Taking the lead for team lifts
- As more than one person
is required for these products ensure that one person is
taking the lead.
This may be you
so ensure that each
person that is helping is made aware of the weight and
of the items listed within this assessment. Make sure
you and any others helping know the route you intend
to take that it is clear of any obstructions. Never jerk
the load as this will add a little extra force and can cause
severe strain to the arms, back and shoulders. If there are
steps involved decide on where you will stop and take
a rest period. Move smoothly and in unison taking care
to look and listen to others helping with the lift. Where
possible use a sack truck to move the product over long
flat distances, only lift the products when necessary. If in
doubt stop and get more help.
Individual capability
Individual capability plays an important part in handling
these products. Persons above average build and strength
will find it easier and should be in good health. Persons below
average build and strength may require more rest periods
during the handling process.
Pregnant women should not carry out this operation.
Persons who are not in good health should seek medical
advice prior to commencing any lifting or manual handling
operation.
Residual risk
Following the guidelines given above will reduce any risk to
injury.
All persons carrying out this operation must be fully trained
and copies of the specific risk assessment made available for
inspection and use in their training process.
Further guidance on Manual Handling can be obtained from
the Health and Safety Executive. Manual Handling Operations
Regulations 1992.
MANUAL HANDLING OF APPLIANCE PRODUCTS
