What is Manual Handling?
Manual handling refers to the transporting or supporting a load using your hands or bodily force. It includes lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, moving or carrying a load.
What is a load?
A load is any moveable object, such as a box, a person or an animal.
A load can also be something being pushed or pulled such as a trolley or pallet truck.
Correct manual handling is an essential skill not just in the workplace but in your personal life as well.
The goal is to move objects safely and efficiently while minimizing the risk of injuries. Proper techniques, training, and equipment are important to prevent injury and strains.
Employers provide guidelines and training to ensure employees handle objects correctly, use mechanical aids when needed, and assess and manage risks associated with manual handling tasks.
By following these guidelines, individuals can reduce the risk of injuries and work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSD).