Manual Handling Training With A Method to Lift Objects Correctly

It is recommended that manual handling training be practiced in a city like Melbourne as many injuries at workplace are most commonly caused by incorrect manual handling and a third of workplace related injuries are caused by musculoskeletal disorders or MSDs. Manual handling injuries can happen anytime people are at work like on farms, building sites, inside factories, offices, warehouses, hospitals, banks, labouratories and when making deliveries. The risks for developing musculoskeletal disorders are heavy manual labour, awkward postures, manual materials handling and previously existing injuries. When action is taken on time then such injuries can be actively prevented and it is recommended that symptoms be reported early on.

There are some good handling techniques which a person can learn easily. It is essential to think before lifting an object considering factors like where the load will be placed and if handling aids can be used or some other help can be used. Obstructions like wrapping material needs to be removed and when lifting a load for longer time resting midway maybe required. A stable position needs to be chosen and balance needs to be maintained for proper manual handling activities. The clothing must be comfortable and not causing an obstruction while lifting. It is important to get a good hold on the object by hugging the object as close to the body as possible. The object needs to be kept close to the waist for as long as possible when lifting. The importance of a good posture cannot be over emphasised while lifting of the object. There is no need to flex back further while lifting of the object and twisting sideways or leaning must be avoided. The head must be kept held up high and one must look in front while walking with the load. The lifter of the load needs to walk smoothly in order to avoid a jerk or injuries. There is no need of handling more than what is manageable and after lifting, the object needs to be put down at the required place carefully. For more information on manual handling training in Melbourne area visit company Job Fit.

Create health and safety in the workplace through manual handling training

As we all have heard the proverb which states that prevention is better than cure, one should always follow this in every circumstance of their life to avoid future hazards. Having a positive health and safety environment in your workplace can have a huge impact on the self-esteem of the staff and their overall well being.

Manual handling involves any activity that includes moving an object consisting weight from one place to another, for example, it involves pulling, pushing or twisting. Injuries may include problems with shoulder area, upper back or limbs. Some injuries take a long time to heal i.e. if the company is believed to be responsible than they have to pay for the medical expenses.

So, here comes the role of manual handling training which avoids causing immediate and long term injuries which have a profound effect on an individual or on the company. In short, in this blog, we are going to discuss the positive impact of an effective manual handling training within your business:-

• Huge reduction in the number of workplace incidents

Whether it is retail or manufacturing sectors injuries in the workplace are common. Thereafter injured parties are not unable to work and create problem for both the employer and the employee. The causes of sudden injuries can be employees being asked to carry loads that are too heavy and because of twisting moments and inadequate training. So, it is always advisable to be more preventive as it is much more beneficial than treating such injuries. 

• Conformity with the law

According to the safety, health and welfare at work regulation act, employers are lawfully obliged to minimize the risk of injury to their employees by developing manual handling training in their workplace providing safety statements for their business and undertaking risk evaluation. 

Particular employers should look to reduce the amount of manual handling that an employee is responsible for. If in case they fail to comply with the law then results in heavy fines and increased responsibility to lawsuits from injured employees.

• Confidence of the team

When a particular employee goes through an injury and not able to work, their teammates will see which create a negative impact on their morale. So, through proper health and safety policies including manual handling training, these injuries and all negative consequences can be avoided.