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9 Steps to Safer Manual Handling
Did you know manual handling causes over a third of all workplace injuries? It's not always easy to avoid manual handling, but when you do need to lift, carry, and move, follow these 9 safe manual handling techniques.
Did you know manual handling causes over a third of all workplace injuries? It's not always easy to avoid manual handling, but when you do need to lift, carry, and move, follow these 9 safe manual handling techniques.
1

Feet Apart - Position feet shoulder-width apart for balance and stability.

2

Knees Bent - Bend at the knees, not the waist, to prevent back strain. Keep feet flat.

3

Back Straight - Keep back straight by engaging core muscles, avoiding hunching or rounding.

4

Good Grip - Grasp object with both hands. Use gloves if needed for better grip.

5

Hold Close - Hold object close to body, aligned with the mid-section to reduce arm strain.

6

Waist Height - Lift slowly, using legs to bring object to waist height, minimizing back effort.

7

Chin Up - Keep head up and chin pointed forward, aligning spine and improving balance.

8

Avoid Twisting - Turn entire body instead of twisting spine. Step with feet to change direction.

9

Move Smoothly - Use slow and controlled movements to prevent sudden jerks and minimize risk of injury.