Manual Handling

The physical movement of materials, equipment and machinery by a human. This activity is the first which is usually carried out by an individual in the grounds care industry and is the one which needs to be learnt as part of initial induction training as incorrect manual handling techniques, even on seemingly easy to handle items, can lead to serious and potentially career wrecking outcomes.
The HSE has developed numerous guides and aids to risk assessment for manual handling, including:
A risk assessment filter, to identify low-risk manual handling and decide if you need to carry out a more detailed risk assessment. Risk assessment checklists for more detailed assessments.
A manual handling assessment chart (MAC). Using the MAC will help to identify high-risk manual handling activities within the workplace. However, the MAC is not appropriate for all manual handing operations and may not comprise a full risk assessment. Risk assessment of pushing and pulling (RAPP) tool (for example using a wheel barrow).
Manual handling procedures / techniques
Wherever possible you should use mechanical assistance such as trolleys, wheelbarrows, trucks or levers when handling and transporting loads.
1. Before handling and / or lifting any item think how you are going to carry the task out safely.
2. Keep the load close to your waist.
3. Adopt a stable position.
4. Ensure you keep a good grip or hold of the load.
5. Start the task with a good posture. Keep your back relatively straight and knees bent when starting to lift a load, such as a bag of compost.
6. Do not lift with your upper body: Essentially this is using your waist and lower spine as a pivot. If you do this your back can be seriously damaged.
7. Do not twist or lean sideways whilst your back is bent.
8. Do not push a heavy load with your leg, otherwise the base of your back can be seriously damaged.
9. Keep your head upright and look ahead; you need to see where you are going.
10. Move smoothly - do not run or jolt your body.
11. Do not lift more than you are comfortable with; don't go and strain yourself before you've even started.
12. If the load becomes awkward to hold then then put the load down, rest and adjust the load as required, before carrying on.
13. Take a break if you feel tired and don't overdo it.
Inappropriate manual handling techniques
These can happen through rushing, trying to take a short cut or being inadequately trained. Don't:
1. Start to handle or lift a load without first thinking about it.
2. Hold your arms out, away from your body, with a heavy load.
3. Have an unstable position or foothold.
4. Move about erratically.
5. Have an insecure grip or hold of a load.
6. Bend with your upper body and back to lift a load.
7. Twist and / or lean sideways whilst your back is bent.
8. Push a heavy load with your leg.
9. Look down or avoid looking where you are going.
10. Start with the maximum load you can carry.
11. Avoid taking a rest or adjusting an uncomfortable hold on a load.
12. Work until you drop - more likely you will trip, slip or lose a grip or hold of what you are carrying before you actually drop down exhausted.
Sources and further references:
Getting to grips with manual handling - A short guide Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (as amended). Guidance on Regulations.