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Guidelines for Manual Handling in the Workplace

Understanding Legal Guidelines

Compliance with Manual Handling Laws

There are legal guidelines dictating what you can and cannot do regarding manual handling. It is your responsibility to be aware of these guidelines in your workplace.

No Universal Safe Load Maximum

Recognizing Individual Factors

Remember, there is no fixed safe load maximum weight due to various factors such as different body sizes, sexes, disabilities, illnesses, and pregnancy. The ability to handle weight depends on proximity to the body and positioning.

The Four Ps: Plan, Prepare, Posture, Proceed

HSE's Mnemonic for Safe Manual Handling

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) offers a simple mnemonic, the four Ps, to remember the recommended approach: Plan, Prepare, Posture, and Proceed. This mnemonic provides guidance for safe manual handling practices.

Avoidance and Risk Assessment

Minimizing Manual Handling Operations

Whenever possible, manual handling operations should be avoided. When avoidance is not feasible, a suitable and thorough risk assessment must be conducted. This assessment aims to reduce the risk of injury to the lowest reasonably practicable level.