Manual handling of materials at work can lead to injuries if proper safety rules are not followed. Some key hazards include lifting loads over 25kg which can strain the back, as well as other ergonomic risks that affect the back, neck, shoulders, arms and hands when improperly lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling or carrying objects. Employers should take a systematic approach to identify, assess and control manual handling risks in order to prevent musculoskeletal injuries.

1. The Key To
Safety Is in Your
Hands. DON’TLEARNSAFETYRULESBY ACCIDENT
Manually handling
materials at work

2. The Key To
Safety Is in Your
Hands. DON’TLEARNSAFETYRULESBY ACCIDENT
Introduction
 Manual handling is a common activity in most workplaces
 It includes lifting, lowering, pulling, pushing, carrying, moving,
holding or restraining an object
 Injuries and musculoskeletal disorders affect the back, neck,
shoulder, arms & hands
 It can be prevented through a systemic approach of
identification, assessment and control of risks associated with
manual handling.

3. The Key To
Safety Is in Your
Hands. DON’TLEARNSAFETYRULESBY ACCIDENT
Hazards associated with manual handling
Lifting over 25kg load can result in back injury