MANUAL HANDLING LIFTING

							MANUAL HANDLING &
     LIFTING
 Manual Handling/Lifting
       Definition
It is defined as the    • Lifting up
transporting or         • Putting down
supporting of a load    • Pushing
by hands or bodily      • Pulling
force. This includes:
                        • Carrying
                        • Moving of a load
                        Or a combination of the
                          above.
Manual Handling and Lifting
        Operations
When manually handling and lifting
items, there is the potential for injuries
such as:
•Strains and sprains
•Fractures, cuts and bruises
•Back problems
     Common Causes of Injuries

• Twisting at the waist
• Reaching and lifting over your head
• Lifting or carrying objects with awkward or odd
  shapes;
• Working in awkward, uncomfortable positions;
• Sitting or standing too long in one position;
• Items that are not secured
• Other factors
    Manual Handling Risk Assessment


•   T     Task
•   I     Individual’s capabilities
•   L     Load
•   E     Environment
Proper Lifting Techniques
         •“Size up” the load.
         •Get firm footing/Put feet close to
         object.
         •Bend knees, keep back straight or
         slightly arched.
         •Get a firm grip. Pull load to body.
         •Lift smoothly and straight up with the
         legs.
         •Proceed carefully and surely.
         •Use feet to change direction.
         •Avoid leaning over.
         •Put down with care.
          Alternatives to Lifting


Lifting Devices
Hand truck or Pushcart
               or
If an object is too heavy, get
assistance from another
individual.
                 QUESTIONS
Kim Dunn Chapital
Occupational Health Manager
T.U. OEHS
988-2870 (phone)
kchapit@tulane.edu