Manual handling of loads, manual material handling involves the use of the human body to lift, lower, fill, empty, or carry loads. The load can be animate or inanimate. Most manufacturing or distribution systems require some manual handling tasks. Though decreasing lately, the rate of workers in the EU-25 that report carrying or moving heavy loads, is still high, reaching 38.0% in the EU-10. When performed incorrectly or excessively, these tasks may expose workers to physical risk factors, fatigue, and injury. A variety of MMH techniques and tools exist to alleviate these potential problems. In the UK all organisations have a duty to protect employees from injury from manual handling activities and this is outlined in The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992.
Manual handling hazards
Any job that involves heavy labor or manual material handling may include a high risk for injury on the job. Manual material handling entails lifting, but also usually includes climbing, pushing, pulling, and pivoting, all of which pose the risk of injury to the back. MMH work contributes to a large percentage of a 1.1 million cases of musculoskeletal disorders reported annually in the United States. Musculoskeletal disorders often involve strains and sprains to the lower back, shoulders, and upper limbs. Potentially injurious tasks may involve bending and twisting, repetitive motions, carrying or lifting heavy loads, and maintaining fixed positions for a long time. MMH under these conditions can lead to damaged muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and blood vessels. Remember your health comes first, it is temporary so make good use of it.
Safe manual handling techniques
Ergonomic intervention in manual handling can decrease injuries and increase worker productivity.
Climbing
When climbing with a load, safe material handling includes maintaining contact with the ladder or stairs at three points. Bulky loads would require a second person or a mechanical device to assist.
Pushing and pulling
Manual material handling may require pushing or pulling. Pushing is generally easier on the back than pulling. It is important to use both the arms and legs to provide the leverage to start the push.
Pivoting
When moving containers, handlers are safer when pivoting their shoulders, hips and feet with the load in front at all times rather than twisting their back. The lower back is not designed to torque or for repetitive twisting.
