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Twenty eight per cent of injuries to Victorian workers are caused by manual handling. Manual handling covers a wide range of activities including: lifting, pushing, pulling, holding, restraining, throwing and carrying. It includes repetitive tasks such as packing, typing, assembling, cleaning and sorting, using hand-tools, operating machinery and equipment, and handling and restraining animals. Not all manual handling tasks are hazardous, but because most jobs involve some form of manual handling, most workers are at some risk of manual handling injury. Good posture and lifting techniques can help reduce the risks, but research indicates that making changes to workplace design is the most effective way to prevent manual handling injury. Manual handling – identifying workplace hazardsSome factors in the workplace may increase the risk of an injury occurring. These hazards can be identified in different ways:
A detailed process, including requirements for identifying hazardous manual handling and implementing risk controls, is available from WorkSafe Victoria. Manual handling – assessing the risksThe next step is to assess which factors are contributing to the risk of injury. Typical risk factors that can increase the risk of injury include:
Reducing or eliminating manual handling risksAfter identifying workplace hazards you can do several things to control the risk of manual handling injuries. These tips can help reduce injury at home as well as at work. Safety include:
Manual handling – protecting your backThe back is particularly vulnerable to manual handling injuries. Safety suggestions include controlling risk factors in the workplace, in addition to personal controls:
Professional advice about manual handlingYour workplace occupational health and safety coordinator can give you advice about managing the risks associated with manual handling. Organisations such as WorkSafe Victoria or unions can offer information and advice on modifying the workplace or work practices to reduce the risk of manual handling injuries. Where to get help
This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:
This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:
This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:
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