Manual handling and workplace ergonomics

Understanding manual handling and workplace ergonomics issues is important in reducing injuries in the workplace. Manual handling tasks are the major cause of workplace injuries in Australia as published by SafeWork Australia. These injuries are classified as Hazardous Manual Tasks as they can lead to Musculoskeletal Disorders.

This training session aims to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of manual handling and workplace ergonomics and how workers can perform tasks safely and effectively.

What Are Musculoskeletal Disorders (SD) As Part Of Manual Handling Tasks

Participants will be provided with an introduction to manual handling and an overview of injuries and risks. Participants will then learn about the human anatomy and how it impacts manual handling tasks, as well as the principles of good ergonomics for manual handling. The Model Code of Practice for Hazardous Manual Tasks lists specific issues that require systems to be implemented to reduce to workers performing tasks.

Lifting and handling tasks pose significant hazards and risks to workers many workplaces.The physical demands or poor techniques of these tasks can lead to musculoskeletal disorders, injuries, and accidents if not properly managed. This training discusses risk assessments risk assessments, appropriate training and equipment, along with processes to implement safety measures to reduce these the risks.

These issues arrise when a person lifts, lowers, pushes, pulls, carries or
otherwise moves, holds or restrains any person, animal or thing involving one or more of the
following:

repetitive or sustained force
high or sudden force
repetitive movement
sustained or awkward posture, or
exposure to vibration.

These are the hazards that directly stress the body and can lead to an injury.

Topics around the musculoskeletal disorders include:

sprains and strains of muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
back injuries.
joint and bone injuries or degeneration.
nerve injuries or compression.
muscular and vascular disorders because of hand-arm vibration.
soft tissue injuries such as hernias.
chronic and acute pain

Risk Assessments of Hazardous Manual Tasks

Participants will learn how to conduct a risk assessment for manual handling tasks and proper techniques, including the use of equipment and tools for manual handling. The session will also include a real-life scenario analysis and risk control measures to demonstrate how to apply the concepts learned in a practical setting. Participants will be required to complete an assessment as part of the session that may include:

demonstration of correct postures,
discussions relating to safe methods of work, or
presentation from group discussions relating to a given topic.

Cost

This WHS training is completed in house at your location and can be amended to account for experienced or novice participants. For these bookings, please contact our offices for a obligation free quote.

*Travel costs may apply outside of the Gold Coast.

Course Inclusions

We supply all equipment necessary for you to undertake training, with face-to-face training conducted by experienced Safety Consultants.

Each Trainee Must

Be at least 16 years of age.
Have at least a Year 10 level of numeracy, literacy and communication skills.
Have the ability to read and write English.

Check out our Training Events page for upcoming training events being completed inhouse. Alternatively, one of our experienced safety consultants can go to your organisation and deliver the training.

We offer a range of health and safety courses, safety training and WHS consultancy services.