Manual Handling Techniques: A Complete Guide to Safe Lifting and Movement

Several key techniques and steps lead to the safe manual handling of loads. The application of these methods forms the core of good practice.

1. Planning of the Task: Before lifting, take some time to think about what you are doing. Questions that you can ask yourself: Is the load too heavy for just one person to manage? Are the routes/interior spaces free of obstacles or hazards that could cause a slip or trip? Could it be easier to do the job with a trolley or some lifting equipment?

2. Try to Stand Firm on Your Feet: If you want to keep balance, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. One leg should be placed slightly forward. If feet are too close together, balance is compromised, and this is especially so if there is some shifting of the load. Good foot placement allows for some adjustment if the load starts to move unexpectedly.

3. The Legs Should Be Used Rather Than the Back : One of the most common mistakes is bending from the waist. The knees and hips are where you should be bending while keeping the back straight and the head up. The leg muscles should be used for lifting the load. There is very little strain on the working back at this level and negligible risk of injury.

4. Knowing When to Ask for Help: Test Recognising your own limits is at the heart of safe practice. Seek help, or use a mechanical aid if a load is too heavy or too large. Working in confined spaces, when tired, or with unbalanced loads, increases the danger, so always ask yourself if help or equipment can be considered.

5. Safe Lifting in Action : The difference is really made when you are trained in Manual Handling Techniques. Check about training courses with Coteca Limite Experts.

   Here is how you can approach lifting a package from the floor to a trolley in a warehouse:

   • Make the path to the trolley clear and eliminate any obstacles or tripping hazards.
   • Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, one foot slightly forward.
   • Squat down by bending your knees and hips, never your back.
   • Get a firm grip with both hands.
   • Lift smoothly using your legs, keeping the load close to your body.
   • Walk carefully without any sudden jerking or twisting while carrying the load.
   • Put the load on the trolley as you reverse the lift: bend knees and hips while keeping the back straight.