Manual tasks toolbox talk

What it is

Lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling or repetitive work that can cause musculoskeletal injuries.

Controls to check, most effective first

1. Redesign the task to remove lifting, such as having materials delivered close to where they are needed.
2. Use mechanical aids such as trolleys, hoists, vacuum lifters and pallet jacks for heavy or awkward loads.
3. Order materials in smaller or lighter packs, and store heavy items between knee and shoulder height.
4. Set up workstations to avoid bending, twisting and overreaching, and provide adjustable seating for prolonged sitting.
5. Rotate tasks and build in breaks to limit repetitive movements and sustained postures.
6. Use team lifts for heavy or awkward items, and train workers in safe handling techniques.

Where it comes up on the job

Work steps from SafetyDocs templates that deal with manual tasks:

• Manual tasksKeep loads close and use trolleys and team liftsFrom Cleaning Public Areas
• Manual HandlingLift and carry ladders safelyFrom Ladders
• Lifting pit /maintenance hole lidLift pit and maintenance hole lids safelyFrom Water Jetting Drains
• Lifting, mounting & installing components into positionGround, inspect and secure components as they are mountedFrom Audio Visual Installation
• Lifting loads, e.g. pipesLift loads within the machine's limits, never over peopleFrom Road Rail Excavator

Questions for the crew

1. Where could manual tasks come up on this job today?
2. Is any of this work on today's job: Manual tasks; Manual Handling; Lifting pit /maintenance hole lid?
3. The most effective control is: “Redesign the task to remove lifting, such as having materials delivered close to where they are needed”. Can we do that here? If not, why not?
4. Which controls for manual tasks are missing or not working on this site?
5. When would you stop work because of manual tasks, and who would you tell?
6. How do we report a hazard, a near miss or an incident on this job?