Tool Box Talks – Manual Material Handling

Toolbox Talk · Workplace Safety

Manual material handling involves lifting, carrying, moving and placing materials during workplace activities. Using suitable handling techniques and protective equipment is important to help reduce the risk of injury.

Before manual lifting or handling, make sure the load is manageable and consider its weight. Appropriate gloves should be used when handling rough, sharp, hot, slippery, odd-shaped or hazardous materials. Safety boots or shoes should be worn to protect toes from falling loads.

Key reminder: Assess the load before lifting. Where manual handling is not suitable, consider an appropriate mechanical aid or seek assistance.

Safe Lifting Techniques

Safe manual handling begins before the load is lifted. Check whether the load can be handled manually, select suitable protective equipment and decide whether a mechanical lifting aid is needed.

Use appropriate gloves for the material being handled and wear safety footwear to protect the toes from falling objects. Consider the weight, shape and condition of the load before starting the task.

Manual Material Handling – Safety Tips

Follow these safety tips when carrying out manual lifting and handling activities:

01If possible, avoid lifting materials manually.

02Determine the weight of the load from labels or the packaging list. If it appears too heavy, select a suitable mechanical lifting aid.

03Keep your feet at a comfortable and suitable distance, positioned parallel behind the object.

04Keep the material to be lifted below eye level.

05Tuck the chin in to align the neck and spine.

06Tuck in the elbows to help provide more power.

07Adopt a sit-down position with the back straight, but not vertical.

08Use the whole hand and palm to get an adequate grip. Do not try to lift using only the fingers.

09Keep the weight directly over the feet and use the legs to push up, not the back.

10Make sure the walkway is clean and free from obstacles, spillages and slippery substances such as oil, grease and water.

11If a load is difficult to lift alone, seek assistance or use a mechanical device.

12Ensure proper coordination when multiple employees are involved in lifting.

13Plan the direction of travel when carrying a load with multiple employees.

14Determine the timing of the lift and use a counting method to coordinate the movement.

15Avoid pinch points when stacking the load.

Team Lifting and Coordination

When more than one employee is involved in lifting, proper coordination is essential. Agree on the direction of travel and determine the timing of the lift before moving the load. Use a clear counting method so that everyone involved moves together.

If the load is difficult to manage, do not attempt to lift it through force. Seek additional assistance or use a suitable mechanical device.

Avoiding Pinch Points While Stacking

Keep hands and fingers clear of potential pinch points when placing or stacking materials. Plan how the load will be positioned before lowering it, and coordinate the movement if more than one person is involved.

Correct Lifting and Stacking – Visual References

Use the following visual references from the original article to reinforce safe material handling practices.

Manual lifting safety illustration — Manual lifting guidance

Stacking materials correctly — Stack materials correctly

Remember: Improper manual handling techniques can cause severe back injuries. Assess the task, use suitable handling methods and seek assistance when required.