Manual Handling Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 ...

Health and Safety
Executive
Guidance
4(1)(b)(i) and (ii)
103 When lifting of loads at or near floor level is unavoidable, take steps to
eliminate or modify the task. If that is impossible then handling techniques which
allow the use of the relatively strong leg muscles rather than those of the back
are preferable, as long as the load is small enough to be held close to the trunk.
In addition, if the task includes lifting to shoulder height, an intermediate step to
allow the handler to change handgrip (see Figure 16) will help to reduce risk. Bear
in mind, however, that such techniques impose heavy forces on the knees and hip
joints which must carry both the weight of the load and the weight of the rest of the
body.
Figure 16 Use of midway stage to change grip
Guidance
104 How close the load is positioned to the body can also be influenced by
foot placement. Removing obstacles which need to be reached over or into – for
example poorly placed pallets, excessively deep bins – will permit the handler’s feet
to be placed beneath or adjacent to the load (see Figure 17).
Before
After
Figure 17 Avoiding an obstructed lift. Organise the workplace so that the handler can get as
close to the load as possible
4(1)(b)(i) and (ii)
105 Where possible the handler should be able to move in close to the load before
beginning the manual handling operation. The handler should also be able to
address the load squarely, preferably facing in the direction of intended movement.
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