This document provides an introduction to manual handling in the workplace. It defines manual handling as the transportation or supporting of a load by hand or bodily force. It lists some common manual handling tasks like pulling, pushing, lifting and lowering loads. It describes how injuries frequently occur in the back and torso from manual handling. It also explains that the spine's natural S-shape allows for movement but is not meant to act like a crane for lifting loads. Employers should provide training on proper techniques and equipment use to minimize risk of injury.

1. Introduction to Manual Handling

2. Knowledge of manual handling is important in the workplace and home. Learning Objectives When you have finished the unit you will be able to: Define what manual handling is Describe the possible consequences of manual handling injuries Explain how the spine works and how poor technique can injure you List your own responsibilities as well as those of your employer State the laws that cover manual handling Explain what manual handling risk assessments are, where you will find them and how to use them.

3. What is Manual Handling? The legal definition is: “ The transportation of supporting of a load (including lifting, putting down, pushing, pulling, carrying or moving) by hand, or by bodily force”. Manual implies that there are no aids to help you, like a hoist. Your organisation will probably have a policy to try and minimise manual handling as much as possible or getting a mechanical aid to help. Remember also that, in most cases in care settings, our load is a disabled person who has needs as well. Many of these centre around being treated with dignity and care.

4. How many manual handling tasks might you need to perform regularly at work? Type your ideas into the list below. When you have finished, click check to see our suggestions. Pulling a load Pushing a load Lifting a load Lowering a load Supporting a load e.g. holding it in position. In addition you might also consider these: Rocking a load e.g. rocking a washing machine into place under a work surface Rolling a load e.g. rolling a gas cylinder along a corridor Our suggestions: Your ideas: You should be trained by your employer in specific manual handling techniques and where necessary in the use of manual handling equipment.

5. Minimal Lifting Policy Most organisations adopt a minimal lifting policy. Wherever possible you should use appliances and aids, like hoists, to avoid you having to risk your back. You only have one back so Don’t try any manual handling task, or use any equipment, until you have been trained. 2. Ask your manager when this will be

6. Common Manual Handling Injuries Did you know 55.9% of handling injuries occur in the torso and 49.3% in the back. This means roughly half the injuries reported each year involve the lower back. The vast majority of these episodes of back pain settle down within six weeks. But even if the pain does go quickly, an underlying weakness may remain, increasing the likelihood of further problems. A series of seemingly minor injuries in the same area could lead to serious pain and disability in the future. Consider the list of manual handling operations you made earlier: how many could you do if you were injured?

7. The Spine and its workings You were always told to keep your back straight but you will notice that the spine isn’t straight at all. Its S shape and made up of 5 different section of vertebrae or small bones that are separated by cushions called discs. The spine is there to keep the body upright. It isn’t there to act as a crane. Muscles do that and the strongest ones in your body are in your legs, so these are the ones to use in manual handling situations.