Techniques – Pushing & Pulling (21637)

When pushing or pulling a load, using equipment such as a  trolley, is one way to reduce or avoid manual lifting and carrying.

Whilst less effort is required, there may still be a risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), which you need to assess and eliminate or reduce.

The HSE has designed a useful tool to help assess the key risks in manual pushing and pulling operations. Click to view: RAPP tool

The principles covered in the previous chapter of the training should also be applied to pushing and pulling tasks. This includes:

1. Maintaining good posture during pushing and pulling.
2. Co-ordinating movements effectively when multiple people are involved in the task.
3. Establishing a stable base and adopting the correct foot position for stability.
4. Assessing the load before initiating the pushing or pulling action.
5. Ensuring a secure and proper grip on the load.
6. Executing smooth and controlled movements throughout the task.