Manual Material Handling: A Risk For Your Business
by Universal Underwriters Group

Material handling accidents have a major impact on business. They occur frequently and can affect all phases of a business operation. Almost all jobs involve some material handling, so all employees are at risk for injury. The typical material handling injury is linked to body movement. Bending, twisting and turning causes stress on the back. The weight of objects along with poorly trained and unconditioned employees are contributing factors in injuries.

The most effective way to reduce exposure to material handling injuries is to eliminate the handling of material. This is normally not an option. However, adapting the work place to the worker and improving the lifting procedures in use can reduce the employees’ exposure to injury.

Here are some proven ways to reduce employee exposure to material injuries:

• Limit the object lifted to 40 pounds or less.

• Reduce the size of the load. Large bulky objects are hard to control.

• Floors should be kept clean, dry and free of oil or water.

• Redesign the work area to avoid twisting, turning and other awkward lifting procedures.

• Train the employee to lift properly and to recognize when lifts are risky. Integrate training into actual work situations to be most effective.

• Store products with lifting and handling in mind. Frequently used or heavy items should be stored to minimize any required lifting.

• Provide job-specific material handing equipment including transmission jacks, engine hoists, floor jacks, car pushers, pallet jacks and forklift trucks.

• Provide mechanical means to handle material. Conveyors, ramps, dollies or other handling devices should be used where possible.

• Maintain all equipment in safe operating condition.

• Inspect the load and plan your route before lifting any object.

• Keep the load close to the body because it reduces stress when lifting an object.

• Lift with the legs. Take advantage of the powerful muscles to avoid straining.

• No twisting or turning while lifting or carrying. Take pivot steps and rotate the body to avoid stress.

Proper lifting techniques for employee training:

• Think before you lift!

• Assess what you are about to lift and know where you’re going to put it down.

• Don’t lift the object if it is too heavy; get help.

• Bend at the knees, not your waist.

• Firm up your stomach muscles.

• Hug the object you are lifting; get it as close to your body as possible.

• Lift with your leg muscles.

These lifting techniques are generally accepted guidelines, but they can’t overcome an individual employee’s physical limitations.

Taking the time to educate your employees on material handling and safe lifting techniques will protect their health and physical well-being as well as reduce your loss exposure for costly workers compensation claims. If you have any questions, please contact your Universal Underwriters Group Account Executive.
 

For information about how Universal Underwriters Group’s Special Account Services Division can help meet your needs,  call 800-840-8842, ext. 4835, visit www.UniversalUnderwriters.com, or send email to uuic.specaccts@UUG.com. This article is provided for informational purposes only. Consult with qualified legal counsel to address your particular circumstances and needs. Universal Underwriters Group is not providing legal advice and assumes no liability concerning the information set forth above.

APRA Global Connection / January 2007

Additional APRA Supported Websites

AutoElectricPro.com
 

Heavy Duty Remanufacturers Group

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