Engineering manual handling

Manual material handling can be hard on the human body. The goal of this post is to provide a series of practical tactics you can work on to improve your workplace starting today.

A synergy exists when all of these tactics are implemented that produces better results together than any one tactic would on its own. Use the links below to catch up on this series on preventing injuries in manual material handling. Engineering controls eliminate or reduce awkward postures with ergonomic modifications that seek to maintain joint range of motion to accomplish work tasks within the mid-range of motion positions for vulnerable joints.

Proper ergonomic tools should be utilized that allow workers to maintain optimal joint positions. Improving the workplace through engineering controls is the preferred control method for reducing risk. Start here : Identify the ergonomic risk factors in your workplace using our recommended ergonomic assessment tools. In addition to the ergonomic assessment tools, the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety has created helpful design considerations for the manual material handling environment.

Engineering manual handling. What Manual Material Handling Is. According to the U. Department of Labor, handling. Fingers are involved only to the extent that they are an extension of the hand, such as to turn a switch or to shift automobile gears. Material handling is the movement, protection, storage and control of materials and products throughout manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, consumption and disposal. As a process, material handling incorporates a wide range of manual , semi-automated and automated equipment and systems that support logistics and make the supply chain work.

Their application helps with:. There is a variety of manual, semi-automated and automated material handling equipment and technologies available to aid in the movement, protection, storage and control of materials and products throughout manufacturing, distribution, consumption and disposal.

These include:. Read more about how material handling systems are used in different industries and applications. For routine tasks, it will be appropriate to introduce regular breaks for recovery and to avoid fatigue. Similarly, manual handling activities should be planned so as to avoid any unnecessary rushing or poor practice.

Hand and foot protection are often required for manual handling. Hand protection can help ensure a good grip, as well as protecting against other hazards or fatigue. Appropriate foot protection again helps avoid injury from inadvertently dropping items or by simply ensuring individuals lifting have sufficient stability before lifting.

Skip to main content. The hierarchy of control for selecting appropriate control measures for manual handling is: Avoid the need for manual handling Reduce the load risk by using lighter weights or more stable containers Reorganise the activity or environment to further reduce the impact on the individual s Utilise mechanical lifting aids or equipment Ensure appropriate rest breaks, job rotation and training is involved Provide personal protective equipment e.

Expand All 1. These can be summarised in the following categories: Powered trucks e. As mechanical lifting aids, there will be specific requirements for training, maintenance, and inspections. However, these will greatly reduce the risk of injury to those moving items, especially if used in conjunction with suitable personal protective equipment i.