Manual Lifting/Handling Solutions
To mitigate hazards in warehouse manual lifting and handling, several safety measures can be implemented.
Heavy objects should be stored between knee level and shoulder level.
Here's a brief discussion with examples for each measure:
- Proper Training in Lifting Techniques: Training workers on how to lift with their legs, not their back, and how to maintain a straight posture while lifting. Demonstrations and practice sessions on correct lifting and carrying methods.
- Use of Mechanical Aids: A key measure for reducing hazards associated with manual lifting and handling in a warehouse is providing mechanical aids such as hand trucks, pallet jacks, or forklifts for moving heavy items. Using conveyor belts or rollers to move goods over longer distances is another important measure.
- Ergonomic Workplace Design: Arranging storage at waist level (knees to shoulder) to minimize the need for bending or reaching overhead. Implementing adjustable workstations to cater to workers of different heights.
- Team Lifting for Heavy Objects: Implementing a policy that requires two or more workers to lift items beyond a certain weight. Training in coordinated team lifting techniques.
- Frequent Breaks and Job Rotation: Scheduling regular breaks to prevent fatigue and muscle strain. Rotating workers among various tasks to reduce repetitive strain injuries.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Providing gloves for grip and protection. Ensuring workers wear appropriate footwear to prevent slips and falls. Note: Back/safety belts are not classified as personal protective equipment. While using back/safety belts doesn't enable users to safely lift heavier objects, it does serve as a reminder for users to lift properly.
- Clear Pathways and Adequate Lighting: Ensuring aisles are free of clutter and spills to prevent trips and falls. Well-lit work areas to improve visibility and safety.
- Regular Health and Safety Audits: Periodically reviewing manual handling activities to identify and address potential hazards. Soliciting worker feedback during safety audits to identify ergonomic improvements.
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2-7. What is a key measure for reducing hazards associated with manual lifting and handling in a warehouse?
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