XXXXXXX Pty Ltd | Safe Work Procedure – Manual Handling | Revision: XX | DD/MM/YYYY

SAFE WORK PROCEDURE

For

MANUAL HANDLING

Content: SWP and Training Plan for Manual Handling

Prepared by : XXXXXXX

Date of initial implementation, Version 1: DD/MM/YYYY

Current Revision No.: 1

Date current version implemented: DD/MM/YYYY

Date for next review: DD/MM/YYYY

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT TO BE UTILISED

  • No loose clothing or dangling jewellery, shirt tucked in and long hair tied back.
  • Safety Boots.
  • Hand Protection.
  • Safety Vest.

PERMIT/TRAINING REQUIRED

  • Operators must have completed a training program recognised by xxxxxx and be authorised by xxxxxxx to perform this procedure.

START UP PROCEDURE

  • Ensure all PPE is being worn.
  • Ensure that all personnel are in a safe position and the intended pathway is clear of obstructions and trip hazards.
  • DO NOT PERFORM THIS PROCEDURE if the weight of the object is too much; a lifting device is available or it is unsafe to lift. Advise the Supervisor immediately.

OPERATIONAL PROCEDURE

  • Manual lifting and carrying of heavy loads should only be used as a last resort.
  • Use mechanical assistance suited to the load and the task.
  • Keep heavy items at working height.
  • Try to make the load as light or small as possible.
  • Handle fewer items at one time.
  • If the object is unstable, hot, sharp or slippery; consider ways it can be enclosed or contained to reduce the risk.
  • There should be sufficient space for lifting to be done in the right position and with correct body movements.
  • There should be no obstructions when moving things.
  • The start and finish heights of the load should be a suitable level above the floor (if practical).
  • The load should be carried as close to the body as possible.
  • The back should not be twisted.
  • Carrying with one hand should be avoided.
  • If lifting has to be frequently repeated, the acceptable weight of the load rapidly diminishes.
  • The width of the load across the body to be no more than 50 cm to allow the elbows to be supported against the trunk.
  • Load height should allow workers to see where they are going.
  • The length of the load should not exceed 30 cm so the centre of gravity stays close to the body.
  • Twisting while bending is particularly harmful.
  • Only attempt team lifting if trained to do so.
  • Bend to lift an object - don't stoop.
  • Keep your back straight by tucking in your chin.
  • Lift with the strong leg muscles, not the weaker back muscles.

TEAM LIFTING BASICS

  • There are an adequate number of workers in the team (the lifting capacity of the team is not equivalent to the sum of their individual capacities).
  • One person is appointed to plan and take charge of the operation.
  • Enough space is available for the handlers to manoeuvre as a group.
  • Team members are of a similar height where possible.
  • Team members know their responsibilities during the lift.
  • Training in team lifting has been provided and the lift rehearsed, including what to do in case of emergency.
  • Aids to assist with handling (slings, straps, bars, hoists) are used where possible.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURE

If you feel you have hurt yourself during the lifting procedure either:

  • Ask for immediate assistance.
  • Put the load down if safe to do so.
  • Report your incident.
  • Seek first aid or medical advice.

IF YOU HAVE NOT BEEN TRAINED IN THE TASK OR YOU ARE NOT SURE HOW TO PERFORM THE TASK OR OPERATE THE MACHINERY, DO NOT OPERATE THE MACHINERY AND ADVISE YOUR SUPERVISOR IMMEDIATELY.

OPERATOR’S STATEMENT

I have been trained in and I understand this procedure.

I will perform my tasks to the best of my ability and in accordance with this safe working procedure.

Date: ......

Operator’s Name: ......

Operator’s Signature: ......

Witness Name: ......

Witness Signature: ......

Page 1

MANUAL HANDLING THEORY ASSESSMENT

Q1. Mechanical Aids, PPE and Team Lifting should be considered if the weight of an object is too large to lift yourself.

True /  / False / 

Q2. It is necessary to plan every lift.

True /  / False / 

Q3 All factors should be taken into account to determine the best technique before attempting a lift.

True /  / False / 

Q4. The centre of gravity of a load should be in close to the body during a lift.

True /  / False / 

Q5. The start and finish heights should be a suitable level above the floor if possible.

True /  / False / 

Q6. Twisting while bending is not particularly dangerous.

True /  / False / 

Q7. The width of a load is not important.

True /  / False / 

Q8. Team lifting can be done with no training.

True /  / False / 

Q9. Load height should allow workers to see where they are going.

True /  / False / 

Q10. The length of a load in front of the body should not exceed 30 cm.

True /  / False / 

Employee signature: ......

Questioned by: ......

Position/ Qualifications: ......

Date:......

OBSERVATION OF ASSESSMENT

I have observed the employee ……………………………………. in a work situation and he/she has demonstrated competence in the practical aspects of Manual Handling by following the Safe Work Procedure.

Signed: ......

Name: ......

Position: ......

Date: ......

Signed: ......

Name: ......

Position: ......

Date: ......

Signed: ......

Name: ......

Position: ......

Date: ......

SELF-ASSESSMENT – MANUAL HANDLING TRAINING

Employee:......

Trainer: ......

Date: ......

I have received training in the following and understand (please initial): / YES / NO
I must wear my eye and foot protection, have my hair tied back and my shirt tucked in at all times. I must wear protective clothing including hand protection if required.
Change this protective equipment when it wears out or is damaged.
I must carry out a pre operational check including but not limited to:
 Clear work area and remove trip hazards.
 Ensure the PPE is being worn.
The immediate area must be clear and kept clear during the operations; including:
 No persons in danger.
I understand that I must
 Practice safe manual handling procedures at all times.
 Never attempt to lift a heavy or cumbersome object if a lifting device is available.
 Manually lift and carry heavy loads only as a last resort.
 Use mechanical assistance suited to the load and the task.
 Keep heavy items at working height.
 Try to make the load as light or small as possible.
 Handle fewer items at one time.
 If the object is unstable, hot, sharp or slippery; consider ways it can be enclosed or contained to reduce the risk.
 Create sufficient space for lifting to be done in the right position and with correct body movements.
 Carry the load as close to the body as possible.
 Not be twisting my body when lifting.
 Not carry with one hand.
 Always ask for assistance if an object is too heavy or cumbersome.
 Stay alert at all times.
 Notify a Supervisor IMMEDIATELY a problem occurs.
  • I have had correct Manual Handling demonstrated to me.
  • I have had the opportunity to ask questions.
  • I am aware that I can request further training at any time.
  • I understand that by signing below; I agree to perform Manual handling tasks following this Safe Work Procedure.

Signed: ......

Name: ...... Date: ......

ATTENDANCE REGISTER – MANUAL HANDLING TRAINING

Trainer:......

Date: ......

NAME

MANUAL HANDLING THEORY ASSESSMENT - ANSWERS

Q1. Mechanical Aids, PPE and Team Lifting should be considered if the weight of an object is too large to lift yourself.

True /  / False / 

Q2. It is necessary to plan every lift.

True /  / False / 

Q3 All factors should be taken into account to determine the best technique before attempting a lift.

True /  / False / 

Q4. The centre of gravity of a load should be in close to the body during a lift.

True /  / False / 

Q5. The start and finish heights should be a suitable level above the floor if possible.

True /  / False / 

Q6. Twisting while bending is not particularly dangerous.

True /  / False / 

Q7. The width of a load is not important.

True /  / False / 

Q8. Team lifting can be done with no training.

True /  / False / 

Q9. Load height should allow workers to see where they are going.

True /  / False / 

Q10. The length of a load in front of the body should not exceed 30 cm.

True /  / False / 

SAFE WORK PROCEDURE – MANUAL HANDLING

STARTUP PROCEDURE
  • Ensure all PPE is being worn.
  • Ensure that all personnel are in a safe position and the intended pathway is clear of obstructions and trip hazards.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURE
  • If you feel you have hurt yourself during the lifting procedure either:
  • Ask for immediate assistance.
  • Put the load down if safe to do so.
  • Report your incident.
  • Seek first aid or medical advice.
/ OPERATIONAL PROCEDURE
  • Manual lifting and carrying of heavy loads should only be used as a last resort.
  • Use mechanical assistance suited to the load and the task.
  • Keep heavy items at working height.
  • Try to make the load as light or small as possible.
  • Handle fewer items at one time.
  • If the object is unstable, hot, sharp or slippery; consider ways it can be enclosed or contained to reduce the risk.
  • There should be sufficient space for lifting to be done in the right position and with correct body movements.
  • There should be no obstructions when moving things.
  • The start and finish heights of the load should be a suitable level above the floor (if practical).
  • The load should be carried as close to the body as possible.
  • The back should not be twisted.
  • Carrying with one hand should be avoided.
  • If lifting has to be frequently repeated, the acceptable weight of the load rapidly diminishes.
  • The width of the load across the body to be no more than 50 cm to allow the elbows to be supported against the trunk.
  • Load height should allow workers to see where they are going.
  • The length of the load should not exceed 30 cm so the centre of gravity stays close to the body.
  • Twisting while bending is particularly harmful.
  • Only attempt team lifting if trained to do so.
  • Bend to lift an object - don't stoop.
  • Keep your back straight by tucking in your chin.
  • Lift with the strong leg muscles, not the weaker back muscles.
Team Lifting Basics
  • There are an adequate number of workers in the team (the lifting capacity of the team is not equivalent to the sum of their individual capacities).
  • One person is appointed to plan and take charge of the operation.
  • Enough space is available for the handlers to manoeuvre as a group.
  • Team members are of a similar height where possible.
  • Team members know their responsibilities during the lift.
  • Training in team lifting has been provided and the lift rehearsed, including what to do in case of emergency.
  • Aids to assist with handling (slings, straps, bars, hoists) are used where possible.
Failure to comply with the safety instructions may result in personal injury.