Manual Handling Policy

Tasks that involve manual handling, like lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling loads, can lead to injuries. These risks are heightened when the tasks require awkward movements or if the person has pre-existing injuries. Manual handling-related incidents can happen anywhere in the workplace, no matter the weight of the items being handled.

We’re committed to making sure manual handling in our workplace, for all who maybe affected, including employees, contracts and temporary workers, is as safe as possible. We will eliminate or reduce the need for physically demanding tasks as part of our workplace activities where possible, whether on-site or working remotely.

Risk assessment and control measures

We will complete risk assessments in line with current legislation and guidance (if manual handling is necessary and it isn’t reasonably practicable for us to avoid it). These assessments will consider the task, individual, load, and environment (TILE).

Where we can’t eliminate manual handling we’ll implement control measures to reduce the risk of harm to as low as reasonably practicable, we will:

• use lifting aids and equipment,.
• re-design tasks to minimise risk factors, including twisting, bending, and reaching.

Information, instruction, training

We will provide:

• mandatory manual handling training for all relevant persons
• where practicable, and required for safety – information regarding the weight and weight distribution of items handled
• training to cover risks, safe lifting techniques, and use of mechanical aids.
• refresher training regularly, when new risks are identified and if there is any change to the way the task is done.

Monitoring

We will regularly review our risk assessments and safety arrangements to check they’re in line with the latest legislation, formal guidance and best practice. Inspection, maintenance and servicing of lifting equipment will follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and legal requirements.

We shall investigate any accidents or injuries reported to us and related to manual handling tasks. Incidents that result in musculoskeletal injuries will be investigated so that we can review our risk assessments and working methods to prevent future occurrences.