Manual handling in some form is required in almost every occupational setting. Over 30% of accidents at work in Ireland are categorised by the Health and Safety (HSA) as resulting from handling and lifting. The main concern with manual handling activity is the increased risk of injury due to wear and tear on the back.  Back injuries can be painful and reduce one’s mobility, which may lead to long absences from work.

Regulations

Part 2, Chapter 6 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations, 2007 is titled “Manual Handling of Loads”.  These Regulations take a wide-ranging approach to manual handling, requiring employers to avoid manual handling where possible, to carry out risk assessments, to provide appropriate mechanical aids and to ensure that adequate training in manual handling is given to employees.

Assessment Process

Our services allow you access to one or more of Nifast’s professional full-time safety consultants who can advise your organisation on their Manual Handling Risk Assessment needs.

Consultants can act as ‘competent persons’ and work with staff in your organisation to ensure that there is a good awareness, controls and active recommendations in place appropriate to the nature of your business.

The Nifast approach to this type of assessment involves:

   – A review the work area layout and working space constraints

   – A review of the specific manual handling tasks carried out in the workplace, including weight of loads, frequency of the tasks and nature of loads.

   – An environment assessment of lighting and temperature

   – A review of the training received by those carrying out the manual handling tasks

   – A review of the systems of work implemented, including mechanical aids

Nifast provide a final report, which includes the findings of the assessment and recommendations to assist in reducing the risk of back injury.

Do you need Manual Handling Risk Assessments completed in your workplace?

   – Is manual handling conducted in the workplace?

   – Are you in line with minimum legislative requirements in this area?

   – Are any of your employees reporting back pain or off work as a result of a manual handling injury?

   – Does your company have the in-house expertise to conduct Manual Handling Risk Assessments?

Nifast can also provide training in this area, including:

3 Hour - Manual Handling Courses

FETAC Level 6 Manual Handling Instructor Courses