GETTING TO GRIPS WITH
MANUAL HANDLING
Think before you lift
Plan the lift. Where is the load going to be placed? Use appropriate handling aids where
possible. Will help be needed with the load? Remove obstructions, such as discarded
wrapping materials. For long lifts, such as from floor to shoulder height, consider resting the
load mid-way on a table or bench to change your grip on it.
Keep the load close to the waist
Keep the load close to the waist for as long as possible while lifting. The distance of
the load from the spine at waist height is an important factor in the overall load on the
spine and back muscles. Keep the heaviest side of the load next to the body. If
closely approaching the load isn't possible, try to slide it towards the body before trying
to lift it.
Adopt a stable position
Your feet should be apart with one leg slightly forward to maintain
balance (alongside the load if it's on the ground). Be prepared to
move your feet during the lift in order to maintain a stable posture. Wearing over-tight
clothing or unsuitable footwear, such as heels or flip flops, may make this difficult.
Ensure a good hold on the load
Where possible, hug the load close to the body. This may be a better option than gripping
it tightly with the hands only.
Don't bend your back excessively
A slight bending of the back, hips and knees at the start of the lift is preferable to
either fully flexing the back (stooping) or fully flexing the hips and knees – in other
words, fully squatting.
Don’t flex the back any further while lifting
This can happen if the legs begin to straighten before starting to raise the load.
Keep your head up
Keep your head up when handling the load. Look ahead, not down at the load once it
has been held securely.
Don't twist
Avoid twisting the back or leaning sideways especially while
the back is bent. Keep your shoulders level and facing the
same direction as the hips. Turning by moving your feet is
better than twisting and lifting at the same time.
Move smoothly
Don't jerk or snatch the load as this can make it harder to keep
control and can increase the risk of injury.
Know your limits
Don't lift or handle more than you can easily manage. There's a difference between what people can lift and
what they can safely lift. If you're in doubt, seek advice or get help.
Put the load down, then adjust
Put the load down and then adjust. If you need to position the load precisely, put it
down first, and then slide it into the desired position.
