Here’s the last topics from “A Health and Safety Guideline for your Workplace” by The Industrial Accident Prevention Association 2008:
Manual Materials Handling
General Precautions
Instruct employees to take the following precautions when handling loads:
●● test the weight of the load to ensure it can be lifted securely; if not, make adjustments
●● grip the load securely
●● protect hands against pinch points
●● practice good team lifting
●● get help with awkward loads
●● always use the mechanical devices and aids provided
●● don’t rush or cut corners
Maintenance
Establish a preventive maintenance program, with input from equipment manufacturers, to ensure that the following is completed on a regular basis:
●● cleaning of wheels and bearings on hand carts and other mechanical aids
●● lubricating as necessary
●● replacing worn and defective wheels and casters
●● checking that all mechanical aids work efficiently
Training
Traditional training has focussed on proper lifting methods and safe work procedures. More recently, workplaces have introduced fitness and back education approaches. In combination with job and workplace design changes, these approaches are effective in preventing accidents and injuries. On the job demonstrations and practice sessions are the best methods of training. Cover basic manual materials handling procedures, and the proper use of mechanical aids and techniques. Regularly reinforce the proper techniques to ensure their continued use.
The objectives of material handling training are to teach the worker:
1. how to identify hazardous loads or handling tasks
2. the proper selection and use of mechanical handling aids
3. safe postures and manual lifting techniques to minimize strain
4. safe lifting techniques
