Injuries relating to manual handling are a major cause of lost time in the workplace and mak e up almost one-third of WA's workers' compensation claims.
According to WorkSafe, almost 7 million working days were lost in the five years to 1999-2000 and 132,819 workers' compensation claims were made at an average cost of $18,000 each.
The Occupational Safety and Health Act 1984 specifies that both employers and employees need to ensure their own safety at work, as well as others who might be injured by the work. These duties extend to the prevention of manual handling injuries.
Workplace injuries most commonly linked to manual handling include sprains and strains, hernias and damage to the back – but these are preventable if proper steps are taken.
It's more than just keeping an eye on the weight of the objects being handled and keeping your back straight, with knees bent, or lifting properly. It also includes knowing the right way to carry, push, pull, hold and restrain various items.
Other factors that can cause injury include awkward movements, fixed postures and how long and quickly a task is performed. Injuries can be the result of gradual wear and tear from frequent or prolonged activities, or sudden damage from a single lift of something heavy.
There are numerous ways to control the risk of manual handling injuries, ranging from simple procedural changes to state-of-the-art machinery and equipment. Products to assist can include back saver cranes, castors, drum handling, forklift attachments, hand trucks, lift tables, load skates, pallet lifters, vacuum lifters, tailgate loaders and pallet lifters.
Three easy steps to remember in relation to manual handling and workplace safety are:
More information about manual handling is available through WorkSafe on 1300 307 877 or email safety@docep.wa.gov.au.
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