Manual Handling Videos
ELO Media are specialist in creating effective manual handling videos for companies and organisations of all sizes. Our bespoke manual handling videos can be stand alone or used as part of a larger video such as for staff induction. We’ve produced them for organisations such as Oxfam, Disney, NFU Mutual and British Gas to name just a few.
Whatever your needs it’s important that those whose work involves lifting and carrying of loads will receive training on safe lifting as nearly all staff undertake manual handling tasks and it’s vital that they do this without risk of injury.
OK, so What is Manual Handling?
Manual handling is any activity that requires the use of force to lift, lower, push or pull an object. It also includes carrying or holding an object. Many manual handling activities are carried out in a workplace as part of normal work tasks, such as lifting boxes or files.
Manual handling can be hazardous if not carried out correctly. It is one of the most common causes of injury at work, and can lead to long-term health problems such as back pain and musculoskeletal disorders. This is why it is so important to follow the correct procedures when carrying out manual handling tasks.
The Law on Manual Handling
In the UK, the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (as amended in 2002) set out the requirements for employers to reduce the risk of injury from manual handling activities. The Regulations apply to all manual handling activities including lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling or carrying.
Employers must assess the risks from manual handling activities and take steps to reduce them. This includes providing information and training for employees who carry out manual handling tasks. Employers should also consider using mechanical aids where possible to reduce the need for manual handling. For example, lifting trolleys or conveyor belts can be used instead of manually lifting objects.
When assessing the risks from manual handling activities, employers should consider factors such as:
-The weight of the object being lifted
-The distance the object needs to be moved
-The frequency with which the task is carried out
-Whether the task involves twisting or stooping
-The working environment
-The employees’ physical abilities
-Whether pregnant women or new and expectant mothers are likely to be exposed to the risks from manual handling
Once the risks have been assessed, employers should take steps to reduce them by making changes to how the task is carried out or by using mechanical aids. For example, they could:
-Reduce the weight of objects being lifted
-Use trolleys or conveyor belts instead of manually lifting objects
– Increase staff numbers so that more than one person is required to carry out a task
– Provide training for employees on how to safely carry out manual handling tasks
Employees also have a duty under health and safety law to take care of their own safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions at work. This includes cooperating with their employer on measures introduced to control risks from manual handling activities.
Conclusion:
Manual handling activities are a common cause of workplace injuries, which is why it is so important that they are carried out correctly. Employers have a legal duty to assess the risks from manual handling activities and take steps to reduce them. This may involve making changes to how a task is carried out or providing mechanical aids such as trolleys or conveyor belts. Employees also have a duty under health and safety law to take care of their own safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions at work.
Our manual handling videos will help your employees learn how to lift safely and provide clear and concise instructions on the correct lifting techniques. If you’d like to see how affordable our health and safety manual handling videos are please contact us.
Call us on 01202 805091 or email Sales@elo.co.uk – we’d love to work with you.