Although there are many considerations in Manual Handling, the first and foremost thing to consider is a risk assessment. Does the load need to be moved at all? if so can it be moved mechanically? If the load has to be moved manually, there are many things that can be done to reduce injury.
- making the load smaller or lighter – therefore making it easier to lift
- modifying the workstation to reduce carrying distances, twisting movements, or the lifting of things from floor level or from above shoulder height,
- improving the environment for the manual handling – e g improving lighting, flooring or air temperature can sometimes make manual handling easier and safer,
- Ensuring the person doing the manual handling is fully trained to lift as safely as possible.