Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster

LIFTING AND HANDLING OF LOADS POLICY

Last Reviewed June 2008

1 General Statement

Manual handling is one of the most common causes of absence through injury in the workplace. Many injuries have long term effects. The policy is intended to reduce the risk of lifting and handling injuries and to provide guidance on the measures that should be taken to ensure safe lifting and moving in the workplace.

A European Directive issued in 1991 led to new legislation on Manual Handling of Loads at Work (Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992) being introduced on 1 January 1993. This legislation has put in place more specific requirements which will affect both employers and employees in the area of safe lifting and handling at work.

To comply with the legislation The Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster will seek ensure that operations that involve manual handling are eliminated, so far as reasonably practicable.

2 Objectives Of The Policy

  • To reduce the incidence of back problems for staff at work or, elected official or members during YFCU activities
  • To emphasise the importance of prevention of injury
  • To promote the role of ergonomics in preventing problems

3 Securing The Health And Safety Of staff And Elected Officials And Members

Staff and elected officials and members are expected to reduce the risk from manual handling and lifting by:

  • By eliminating the need for lifting.
  • Redesigning the task to eliminate the risk.
  • Automating or mechanising the procedure - this may involve the provision of hoists or other mechanical aids.
  • Sharing or spreading the load so as to reduce the individual lift involved.
  • Where lifting cannot be avoided, ensure that the techniques employed are safe.

4Risk Assessment

A risk assessment should be carried on those manual handling operations which cannot be avoided - to include:-

  • The Task
  • The Load
  • Individual capability
  • The Environment

5Risk Reduction

Once the assessment is completed, appropriate steps should be taken to reduce or minimise the risk. The ergonomic approach is the most effective method of addressing this issue.

6Responsibilities Of The Young Farmer’s Clubs Of Ulster

  • Follow the guidance given in the Manual Handling of Loads Regulations.
  • Ensure that risk assessments are carried out and records are kept.
  • Provide adequate training and information to staff and volunteers carrying out manual handling activities.
  • Organise and develop safe systems of work and eliminate manual handling where possible.
  • Ensure staff and volunteers are complying with training/guidelines given.
  • Maintain documentation and records on all aspects of manual handling training including accidents and incidents.
  • Investigate any injuries or incidents relating to manual handling and initiate remedial action where necessary.

7Responsibilities – Staff, Elected Officials And Members.

  • Co-operate with the Association in the implementation of the Manual Handling of Load Regulations.
  • Assist in the completion of risk assessments.
  • Observe safe systems of work.
  • Report problems, accidents and incidents in line with established procedures.
  • Comply with instruction and training/guidelines, which is provided in safe manual handling activities.
  • Inform the Association, staff member or elected official, in confidence, of any relevant medical condition, which will impact on the manual handling of materials.
  • Make full use of any equipment or system of work to reduce the risk of injury.

8Information And Training

  • Suitable information and/or training will be provided to persons who are required to carry out manual handling activities. Training needs will be identified and reviewed by a responsible person. Staff, elected officials and members will also give/receive refresher training as necessary.

9Management Of Staff, Elected Officials Or Members Who Injure Their Backs

  • Staff, elected officials and members who injure their backs should be referred, or refer themselves, for medical treatment as soon as possible.
  • Following any injury or incident, every effort will be made to facilitate staff in rehabilitation, re-entry to work in accordance with good Human Resource practice and procedures, within the limitations of the service.