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Kinetic handling also known as manual handling refers to moving and transporting objects by human effort without the assistance of machinery or equipment. This can include lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling things of various sizes and weights. Manual handling is an essential consideration in many industries, such as construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and retail, as improper manual handling techniques can result in injuries such as strains, sprains, and musculoskeletal disorders. Employers must assess the risk of manual handling tasks and take steps to minimize the risk of injury, such as providing training on safe lifting techniques, using equipment to assist with lifting, and designing work processes that minimize the need for manual handling. Individuals can also take steps to reduce the risk of injury; one such measure is by using proper lifting techniques, avoiding lifting heavy objects alone, and maintaining good physical fitness.
What Are the Risks of Manual Handling?
Manual handling poses a range of risks including:
- Musculoskeletal Disorders: Lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling heavy objects can strain the muscles, joints, and bones of the body, leading to injuries such as strains, sprains, and back pain.
- Acute Injuries: Improper manual handling techniques can result in acute injuries such as cuts, bruises, fractures, and dislocations.
- Chronic Injuries: Repeated exposure to manual handling tasks over time can lead to chronic injuries such as tendonitis, bursitis, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Fatigue: Manual handling tasks can be physically demanding and lead to fatigue, increasing the risk of injuries and accidents.
- Psychological Stress: Manual handling tasks can be stressful and anxiety-provoking, particularly when workers feel pressured to perform tasks quickly or when they perceive the tasks to be unsafe.
What Are Manual Handling Techniques?
Manual handling techniques are methods for lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling objects that reduce the risk of bodily injury. Here are some basic manual handling techniques:
- Plan the Lift: Before lifting an object, assess the weight, size, and shape of the object. It would help if you also determined the distance you have to carry the object. Plan the lift and consider whether you need assistance or equipment to help you.
- Adopt a Stable Stance: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, and keep one foot slightly in front of the other. Keep your back straight and your shoulders level.
- Get a Good Grip: Use both hands to firmly grip the object, with your fingers underneath and thumbs on top. Keep the object close to your body.
- Lift with your Legs: Bend your knees and squat down to the level of the object. Keep your back straight and your head up. Lift the object using the strength of your legs, not your back.
- Avoid Twisting: When carrying the object, avoid twisting your body. Instead, turn your feet and pivot on your heels to change direction.
- Lower the Object Carefully: To lower the object, bend your knees and lower it slowly and carefully, keeping your back straight and your head up.
- Take Breaks: If you need to carry an object for a long distance, take frequent breaks to rest and stretch your muscles.
These techniques are just a basic guideline for manual handling, and the specific methods used may vary depending on the individual task and the nature of the object being lifted. It’s essential to receive proper training on manual handling techniques to ensure safe lifting practices.
How Can You Avoid Manual Handling Injuries?
Follow our tips below to protect yourself from manual handling injuries:
- Use Mechanical Aids: If possible, use mechanical aids such as trolleys, hoists, and forklifts to lift and move heavy objects. This can reduce the risk of injury and strain on the body.
- Plan Ahead: Plan the task, including the weight and size of the object, the route you will take, and the location where you will place the object. This can help you to identify any potential hazards and reduce the risk of injury.
- Use Proper Lifting Techniques: Use proper lifting techniques, such as keeping your back straight, bending your knees, and lifting with your legs rather than your back. Avoid twisting your body while lifting or carrying objects.
- Get Help: Don’t attempt to lift heavy objects alone if you’re unsure if you can handle the weight. Get help from a colleague or use mechanical aids.
- Maintain Good Posture: When lifting or carrying objects, you should maintain a good posture and avoid slouching or hunching your shoulders. This can help to reduce the risk of back pain and strain.
- Take Breaks: If you need to lift or carry objects for a prolonged period, take regular intervals to rest your muscles and prevent fatigue.
- Use Appropriate Footwear: Wear shoes with good grip and support to help you maintain your balance and prevent slips and falls.
- Stay Fit: Maintaining good physical fitness can help to prevent manual handling injuries by improving your strength, flexibility, and endurance.
Remember, receiving proper training on manual handling techniques and following safe work procedures to prevent injuries is essential.
Recovering from Manual Handling Injuries?
Even when you try your best to avoid injuries, if you are not used to moving heavy or awkwardly shaped objects, you might be injured. Follow the tips below if you are suffering from an injury and need a quick recovery.
- Rest: The affected area may require rest to allow the injury to heal. You will have to avoid activities that aggravate the injury, and you might have to take time off from work.
- Ice: Ice application within 24 to 48 hours of an injury can help reduce swelling and inflammation. Wrap an ice pack in a towel or plastic bag and apply it to the affected area for 15-20 minutes. Repeat the process several times a day.
- Compression: Compression with an elastic bandage can also help reduce swelling and support the injured area.
- Elevation: Elevating the affected area can help to reduce swelling and improve circulation. Always try to keep your injured area above the level of your heart.
- Pain Relief: Over-the-counter medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may be used to manage pain and reduce inflammation.
- Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy may be recommended to help regain strength and mobility in the affected area. A physiotherapist can design a customized exercise program for stretching, strengthening the muscles, and improving the range of motion.
- Return to Work: Depending on the severity of the injury, a gradual return to work plan may be recommended. This may involve a modified work schedule, reduced workload, or temporary job duties.
It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s recovery recommendations and avoid further injury by using proper manual handling techniques and avoiding activities that may aggravate the injury.
How Can Professional Removal Companies Protect you from Injuries?
Hiring professional movers can help protect you from injuries in several ways:
- Heavy Lifting: Professional movers are trained and experienced in safely lifting and carrying heavy items. They have the equipment and techniques to conveniently and safely lift heavy furniture and appliances without causing injury.
- Proper Packing: Professional movers also know how to pack your belongings to reduce the risk of injury during the move. They can use appropriate packing materials and techniques to protect your items and prevent them from shifting or falling during transportation.
- Equipment: Professional movers also have access to specialized equipment, such as dollies, straps, and ramps, which can make the moving process safer and more efficient.
- Risk Assessment: Professional movers will also perform a risk assessment before the move to identify any potential hazards and take steps to minimize the risk of injury.
- Insurance: Finally, most professional moving companies carry insurance coverage, which can provide additional protection in case of injury or damage during the move.
