Manual Handling and Ergonomics

Manual Handling injuries account for a significant amount all injury claims across Australia

The average cost of a manual handling claim in Victoria for example is in excess of $57,000 according to WorkSafe Victoria.

Manual Handling includes a wide range of activities including lifting, pushing, pulling, holding, throwing and carrying. Repetitive tasks and tasks requiring awkward body posture are also considered to be manual handling that is potentially hazardous. Hazardous manual handling and tasks may cause injury (such as musculoskeletal disorders).

OHS/WHS Regulations require the identification and control of hazardous manual handling tasks undertaken by employees/workers and the implementation of specific control measures to either eliminate the risk of injury or reduce the risk of a musculoskeletal injury as far as reasonably practicable. There is also a specific requirement to review these control measures in certain circumstances.

Manual handling injuries do not happen in isolation. Poor design of workplaces and activities as well as fatigue can also contribute to both type and severity of injury.

HAZCON can assist you in the following areas:

• Identification of hazardous manual handling/tasks;
• Assessment of  the risk of injury from a range of tasks involving manual handling and using computer workstations
• Recommendation of risk controls;
• Re-designing of workplaces and activities or tasks using ergonomic principles;
• Reviewing of mechanical aids and systems of work; and
• Development of safe systems of work based on procedures and work instructions.

For more information, or to request a proposal, please contact us.