Element 3

Element 3
Musculoskeletal Hazards and

Risk Control
Green World Group | 63

DRAFT PAGE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
3.1 WORK RELATED UPPER LIMB DISORDERS�� 66

1. Meaning and Scope of WRULD ��66
2. Factors Increasing the Risk to Ill-Health Condition��68
3. Control Measures (Precautions)��68
4. Display Screen Equipment��69
5. DSE Risk Assessment��70
3.2 MANUAL HANDLING HAZARDS AND CONTROLS�� 72

1. Anatomy of the Spine��73
2. Manual Handling Risk Assessment��73
3. Manual Handling Precautions/Controls��76
4. Duty of Employees��78
5. Manual Handling Techniques��78
3.3 MANUALLY OPERATED LOAD HANDLING EQUIPMENT�� 79

1. Common Types – Hazards and Controls��79
3.4 POWERED LOAD HANDLING EQUIPMENT�� 83

1. Lifts��84
2. Hoists��85
3. Conveyors��85
4. Cranes��87
SUMMARY�� 92
REFERENCES�� 92

3.1 WORK RELATED UPPER LIMB DISORDERS
1. Meaning and Scope of WRULD

Musculoskeletal diseases are diseases of the muscles and their associated ligaments and other connective tissue and of
the bones and cartilage viewed collectively.
Source: Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique
Musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) is a common term which is explained as relating to muscles and the skeleton. Thus,
the musculoskeletal system involves the:
• Muscles
• Bones
• Joints - the place of union between two or more bones
• Bursa - fluid sac between the muscles and bones that form in areas of friction
• Ligaments - a fibrous band of tissue connecting bones
• Tendons - a fibrous band of tissue connecting muscle to bone
WRULDs is a cumulative term for a group of occupational diseases that consist of musculoskeletal disorders triggered
by direct exposure in the work environment affecting the muscles, tendons, nerves, capillary, joints and bursae of the
hand, arm, wrist and shoulder. RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury) is typically utilised to explain WRULDs.
Typical Examples of Repetitive Operations
Typical examples of repetitive actions that cause WRULDs include:
• Repetitive finger such as keyboard operation

• Hand, or arm movements such as bricklaying
• Twisting movements, e.g. check out operators
• Squeezing, e.g. using pliers, scissors
• Pushing, pulling, lifting or reaching movements, e.g. assembling packing boxes.
• Work on a production line, e.g., assembly of small components
66 | Green World Group

UNIT GC2: CONTROLLING WORKPLACE HAZARDS
Ill Health Effects of Poorly Designed Tasks and Workstations
The ILO (1996) identified the most common injuries and diseases caused by repetitive or poorly designed work as per
Table 1.
Table: Common Work Related Upper Limb Disorders
Injury Symptoms Typical Causes

Bursitis: Inflammation of the
Pain and swelling at the site of Kneeling, pressure at the elbow,
bursa (sack-like cavity) between
the injury. repetitive shoulder movements.
skin and bone, or bone and tendon.
Repetitive work with a bent
Carpal tunnel syndrome: Tingling pain and numbness in
wrist Use of vibrating tools.
pressure on the nerves, which pass the thumb and fingers, espe-
Sometimes follows tenosynovitis
up the wrist cially at night.
(see below).
Cellulitis: infection of the palm Use of hand tools, like hammers
of the hand following repeated Pain and swelling of the palm. and shovels, coupled with abra-
bruising, called ‘beat hand’. sion from dust and dirt
Tennis elbow: inflammation of the Repetitive work, often from
Pain and swelling at the site of
area where bone and tendon are strenuous jobs like joinery,
the injury.
joined. plastering, bricklaying.
Osteo-arthritis: damage to the
Stiffness and aching in the
joints resulting in scarring at the Long-term overloading of the
spine and neck, and other
joint and the growth of excess spine and other joints.
joints.
bone.
Pain, swelling, tenderness and
Tendonitis: inflammation of the
redness of hand, wrist and/ or
area where muscle and tendon are Repetitive movements.
forearm. Difficulty in using the
joined.
hand.
Tension neck or shoulder: in-
Localized pain in the neck or Having to maintain a rigid
flammation of the neck and shoul-
shoulders. posture.
der muscles and tendons.
Trigger finger: inflammation of Repetitive movements. Having
Inability to move fingers
tendons and/ or tendon sheaths of to grip too long, too tightly, or
smoothly with or without pain.
the fingers. too frequently.
Table Source: GWG
Summary of symptoms of WRULDs
The symptoms of WRULDs are typically numbness or tingling in fingers following with painful joints, Swelling and
stiffness/restriction of joint movement, etc.
If the worker rests then the condition will improve. However, if work is resumed too soon, then the situation will worsen
so that as well as the symptoms there will be possibly redness, swelling and limitation of movement. If not treated in
time the situation can become extremely disabling.

Medical conditions caused by WRULDs include a number of conditions such as Tenosynovitis and Carpal Tunnel
Syndrome, Trigger finger, etc.
2. Factors Increasing the Risk to Ill-Health Condition

As regards to all occupational hazards, the hazard factors revolve around the task, the equipment and the environment
where the work is undertaken, and it gets aggravated by individual factors too.
The Task
Factors relating to the task should include:
• Strenuous pulling or pushing

• Repetitive handling
• Insufficient rest or recovery
• A work rate imposed by the process
The Environment
Factors relating to the environment should include:
• Lighting
• Glare
• Ventilation
• Obstacles
• Height of work surfaces
• Temperature (Hot/Cold)
• Space available
Equipment
• Introduce automation if possible to reduce the need for operators to perform repetitive tasks
• Construct equipment to fit the capability of the operator, e.g., speed of conveyors
• Equipment to have adjustments to suit operator, e.g., height adjustment, tilt adjustment
• Equipment to be capable of performing the task for which it was intended without exertion
• Controls such as buttons, switches, levers should be within reach of the Operator
3. Control Measures (Precautions)

There are a number of steps that the employer can take to prevent the condition. These are:
• Identify job involving frequent hand and arm movements

• Reduce the force required and the frequency and duration
• Design or redesign the task
• Design or redesign the equipment
• Design or redesign the work station
• Automate or mechanise the process
• Job rotation
• Regular breaks
• Training employers in correct use of tools
• Training workers in safe postures
• Medical surveillance
• Assessment of individuals for task

4. Display Screen Equipment

The term Display screen equipment DSEs (also
called visual display units VDUs) covers a range of
electrical display equipment that is most often part of
a computer system and includes Laptops.
Health Effects
There are considered to be 3 main health effects in the

use of DSEs and these are:
1. Musculoskeletal Disorders
These are conditions of the hand, neck, shoulder and

arm likewise described as ‘Work associated upper
limb disorders’ WRULDs. These range from short-
lived fatigue or soreness in the limb to chronic soft
Source: Fit for Work
tissue conditions such as Tendonitis and Carpal tunnel
syndrome.
Staying in a static posture of back, neck and head for an extended period of time is known to cause musculoskeletal
conditions, and other elements that contribute to the issue are the awkward positioning of the hands and wrists.
2. Eye and eyesight problems
The medical proof shows that utilising DSEs is not connected with long-term damage to eyes or vision nor does it
make existing defects worse. Nevertheless, some employees may experience short-lived visual fatigue which can be
triggered by poor legibility of the screen, keyboard and files, bad lighting, glare and reflections and a wandering or
flickering image on the screen. There is minimal indication that working with DSE causes eye damage, but it might
cause employees with pre-existing vision problems more knowledgeable about them
3. Fatigue and stress
DSE workers can suffer stress symptoms and fatigue due to the requirement for high-speed work, lack of social
interaction and lack of breaks.
Other Minor or Alleged Health Effects
1. Epilepsy
Display screen equipment has not been shown to induce epileptic seizures. People who suffer from photosensitive
epilepsy who react adversely to flickering lights have found they can work safely with DSE.
2. Facial Dermatitis
Some DSE users have reported facial skin issues such as occasional itching or reddening of the skin on the face or neck.
These grievances are unusual and the restricted proof offered suggests they are related to ecological aspects such as low
relative humidity and specific vulnerability.
3. Electromagnetic Radiation
Anxiety about radiation emissions from DSE and possible results was as soon as it is spread. However, there is
considerable evidence that these concerns are unproven.

4. Effects on pregnant women
There was public concern about the effect of working on DSE on pregnant women, but all scientific studies carried out
do not show any links between miscarriages and birth defects of working on DSE
Who is a DSE User?
Not everyone who works on DSE is a user, and the guidance to the regulations gives an extensive range of who is or is
not a user.
However, a person would generally be considered if the following 7 criteria apply:
• Uses DSE for continuous or near continuous spells of an hour or more at a time
• Uses DSE more or less daily
• Require to process and send information quickly to or from DSE
• Needs high levels of attention and concentration
• Highly dependent on DSE
• No choice in the use or non-use of DSE
• Requires specialised training or skills.
5. DSE Risk Assessment

A DSE Risk assessment should combine both the identification of risk and evaluation of its extent. The analysis
should cover both the presence of undesirable features and the absence of desirable ones. It should take account of user
requirements. The assessment should look at:
Organisation Job rotation, breaks, Supervision, Procedures

Individual Physical characteristics, training
Environmental Noise, lighting, screen glare, temperature, workspace, etc.
Height and position of keyboard and screen, seating posture, the design of the chair, screen
Equipment
definition and colour, adjustability of equipment.
Table Source: GWG
Workstation Requirements
The requirements of a well suitable workstation are:
• Proper lighting
• Sufficient contrast, no glare or disruptive reflections
• Leg space and clearances to enable postural changes
• Window covering if necessary to reduce glare
• Suitable software appropriate to the task
• Screen: stable image, adjustable, readable and glare free
• Keyboard: usable, adjustable, detachable and legible
• Work surface: Space for flexible arrangement of equipment/documents
• Chair: Stable and adjustable
• Footrest if user needs one
• Suitable environment e.g. temperature

Other Requirements
Plan Work So There Are Breaks or Modifications of Activity.
There is no particular timing or length of breaks, but it is suggested that brief and regular breaks are more efficient than
longer less frequent ones. The number and timing of breaks will depend on the nature of the work. The employee must
have some discretion over when to take breaks.
Provision of Eye/Eyesight Tests and Spectacles
Employers may have to provide and pay for eye and vision tests for users if required by the legislation of the country.
If supplied the spectacles are necessary for working at with DSE only. The employer is not expected to pay for fancy or
designer frames.
Provision of Training, Information
The user will be provided with appropriate health and safety training in the usage of any workstation upon which they
are needed to work. The company will also supply the user with info relating to their workstations and the step taken by
the employer to abide by their duties under the policies.
Laptops
The design of Laptops etc. includes features such as

smaller keyboards and lack of screen and keyboard
separation which makes it harder to achieve a
comfortable working posture. Laptops are also used
in a variety of environments which may be poorly
suited to DSE work.
It is not possible to use an independent assessor to

carry out a risk assessment at each location where the
laptop may be employed.
One solution is to give laptop users sufficient training

and information to make their own risk assessments
to ensure that suitable measures are taken to control
risks wherever they set up the laptop. Other problems
with laptops are manual handling and the possibility
of theft.
The Mouse
Source: ZDNet
Extensive use of the mouse may give rise to aches and pains in the fingers, hand,
etc. because the activity is concentrated on one hand. Risks can be reduced by
proper positioning of the mouse and good posture and technique.

3.2 MANUAL HANDLING HAZARDS AND
CONTROLS
A lot of workers are at risk of manual handling injury due to the fact that many tasks include some kind of manual
handling. Obviously, not all manual handling jobs are harmful. But it is substantial that around a quarter of all work
environment injuries are brought on by manual handling.
Manual Handling may be defined as:
Source: WordPress
“Supporting or moving a load by bodily force or hand.”
This includes lifting, lowering, pulling, pushing and carrying of inanimate objects like bags, parcel boxes and also live
objects like handling animals and people, especially in medical care sectors.
Injuries due to manual handling may be classified under the 2 main headings of:
• External
• Internal

External Injuries
Examples of these are cuts, bruises, crush injuries, lacerations to fingers, hand, forearms, ankles and feet. Generally,
these types of injuries are not as serious as internal injuries.
Internal Injuries
Examples of internal injuries are muscle and ligament tears, hernias (ruptures), slipped discs, knee, ankle and shoulder
injuries. One of the most serious injuries is slipped disc which results in frequent incapacity and may even be permanently
damaging.
1. Anatomy of the Spine

The spine or ‘backbone’ is the principal supporting
structure in the body. It provides strength and
stability to the body. There are discs between
the vertebras (bones) that make excellent shock
absorbers when the spine is in a vertical position,
compressing when weight is put upon it, and
springing back to its original shape when the
weight is taken off.
It has three primary functions:
• It is the “scaffolding” of the body

supporting the skull and anchoring the
ribs, pelvis and shoulder bones
• It offers points of connection for the
muscles, tendons and ligaments that
enable the body to move
• It contains the spinal cord, which carries
messages to the brain from all parts of the
body
Posture
Posture is an important consideration which is

often overlooked when working procedures are
developed, or equipment is designed.
Most posture problems are related to an excessive

curvature of the spine, and to remedy this, we must Source: Human Anatomy Structure
make full use of any lumber support available, such as sitting well back in a
chair. We must also avoid the need to lean over our work causing the muscles
in our upper back, neck and shoulder to become fatigued. Body posture also extends to sitting at a desk and reaching
forward from the sitting position. Avoid a hunched position and periodically stretch the back to prevent a build-up of
strain.
2. Manual Handling Risk Assessment

If it is not possible to avoid manual handling operations at work, a risk assessment should be undertaken. To carry out a
risk assessment on all manual handling operations will involve both time and effort.
The HSE in the UK introduced a risk assessment filter to screen out lifting operations with minimal risk as shown by
the diagram below for people standing.

When undertaking a manual handling risk assessment, it should be considered under the four headings of:
• The Load
• The Individual capability
• The Task
• The Environment
This can be remembered using the acronym LITE
Source: High Speed Training
The elements to consider with the load ought to consist of:

• Weight.
• Size.
The Load • Forming.
• Rigidness.
• Outdoors surface areas.
• Stability of contents.
• Other hazards e.g. Hot, Cold, Sharp and so on
Factors relating to the individual should include:
• Sex
• Physical strength
The Individual • Stature
• State of health
• Level of training
• Hazards to pregnant women
• Persons perception of their own ability

Factors relating to the task should include:

• Holding loads away from trunk
• Twisting
• Stooping
• Reaching
• Large vertical movements
The Task
• Distances involved
• Strenuous pulling or pushing
• Repetitive handling
• Unpredictable movement of load
• Insufficient rest or recovery
• A work rate imposed by the process
Factors relating to the environment should include:
Lighting
Ventilation
Obstacles
The Environment
Height of work surfaces
Temperature (Hot/Cold)
Floor conditions
Space available
Table Source: GWG
Factors to consider in Risk Assessment
The risk assessment should consider the load, the individual the task and the environment and then a procedure to carry
out the risk assessment. When undertaking the risk assessment, we should first consider those that are exceeding the
guidelines filters.
Source: Osteopaths For Industry

Where there are risks which are common to a number of broadly similar operations, then a general risk assessment may
be provided. Nevertheless, they should reflect all of the manual handling risks present in these tasks.
In the case of delivery operations, for example, a useful technique is to list the various types of tasks, loads and working
environment concerned and then to review a selection of them. It is possible only to do this at the start of the task and
carefully going through each action sequentially till the finish of the job.
The purpose is to recognise the variety of manual handling risks to which employees are exposed and then to decide on
any necessary preventative steps such as manual handling aids.
The assessment should identify the problems likely to arise during the kind of operations that can be foreseen and the
measures necessary to deal with them.
Obviously, there will be occasions when decisions have to be made regarding manual handling in the workplace and
managers and supervisors will have to be trained to deal with this.
Risk Assessors
The assessment should be carried out by members of staff who are familiar with the operations in question, and they
should be competent.
By definition, a competent person could be called so if he has a combination of training, knowledge, experience and
personal qualities and also knowledge of their own limitations. Manual assessments should be carried out by a person
or persons who have a thorough understanding of the processes and procedures involved. Also, the manual handling
assessor should have excellent communication skills.
They should have a basic understanding of human capabilities, of manual handling Assessment form and the ability to
provide a practical measure to reduce the risk.
Involving the Workforce
Employees, their health and safety representatives, and safety committees should be included in the developing of good
handling practice and encouraged to report defects. They should also participate in the risk assessment process from the
start as their experience of the type of work performed will often provide useful information.
Recording Assessments
The significant findings of the assessment should be recorded (unless the manual handling operations are straightforward,
low risk, short duration or could easily be repeated and explained at any time). The record should be kept for as long as
it remains relevant.
Review
Manual handling assessments should be considered in the following such circumstances as:
• An accident or chronic ill-health reports

• Where there is reason to suspect it is no longer valid
• Where there has been a significant change in the manual handling task to which it relates
• Periodically.
3. Manual Handling Precautions/Controls

While dealing with manual handling hazards, it is entirely possible to apply all the hierarchies of control starting from
elimination to use of PPEs. The following practical steps could be considered for reducing manual handling related
injuries/ill-health :

• Avoid manual handling

• Risk reduction
• Automation and Mechanisation
• Team handling
• Training
• Smaller lighter loads
• Selection of Individuals
• Good environmental working conditions, space, floors clear of obstructions, temperature, light
• Job rotation
Avoiding Manual Handling
Manual handling should be prevented if possible e.g. can a treatment be taken to the patient rather than the patient be
taken to the treatment.
Risk Reduction
If it is not possible to eliminate manual handling tasks which involve a risk of injury, the risk assessment should result
in recommendations to reduce the possibility of injury.
Automation and Mechanisation
Wherever possible manual handling should be replaced or reduced by the use of mechanical handling aids. As an
example substances in powder and liquid forms can be moved from large containers and bags by gravity feed mechanism
thereby, avoiding bag or container handling.
Team Handling
Where loads are too heavy for one person, the Organisation should have procedures in place to properly organise team
handling
Reducing the weight, provide handles, etc. where the size, surface texture, or nature of a load makes it difficult to grasp.
• Ensure loads in packages cannot move unexpectedly whilst being handled

• Avoid sharp corners, jagged edges, rough surfaces, hot or extremely cold surfaces
• Provide information on the load, e.g. Centre of gravity and weight.
Training
Training programmes for employees on manual handling should include the following:_
• Information on the task, load and environment

• Manual handling risk factors and how injuries occur
• Understanding of organisations manual handling risk assessment
• How to carry out safe manual handling and proper handling technique
• How to recognise and deal with potentially hazardous loads
• The correct use of mechanical aids
Smaller Lighter Loads
Reducing the weight of objects can reduce manual handling problems e.g. replacing 50kg bags by 25kg bags. Also
providing handles and avoiding sharp edges can reduce the risk of accidents.
Selection of Individuals
Suitable selection processes should be used when selecting employees to carry out manual handling. Employers should
also attempt to get employees to recognise and admit their own limitations.

Good Environment and Working Conditions
To reduce the risk of manual handling injury from the environmental conditions, there should be:
• Adequate space and headroom provided

• Floors that are kept clear of obstructions and maintained in good condition
• Avoidance of variations in floor level
• Controls introduced regarding extremes of temperature
• Adequate lighting provided
Job Rotation
Job rotation can be used to decrease the amount of manual managing that each employee does throughout the work
shift. Job rotation can assist avoid sprains and stress by offering employees with a modification of activity. The ideal
combination of tasks includes a variety of sitting, standing and walking activities.
4. Duty of Employees
Employees should follow safe systems of work provided. They must use all mechanical equipment aids provided safely.
They should adhere and put in practice the manual handling training provided to them by the employer.
Employees must also report any muscular skeletal injuries or discomforts faced by them, for which the employer must
ensure they are trained to recognise the symptoms.
5. Manual Handling Techniques

Kinetic handling is a good manual handling technique for lifting and moving loads. Although good manual handling
technique is no substitute for other risk-reduction steps, it forms a valuable addition to other risk reduction methods.
To be successful, good handling technique requires training and practice. The content of training in proper handling
technique should be tailored to particular tasks or situations.
Kinetic Handling Technique
1. Assess the load

2. Position feet apart, one foot flat on the floor at the side of the load, the other foot behind, with heel raised as
close to the load as possible
3. Bend the knees and crouch to the load. Adopt a good posture. Maintain a straight back with the natural
spinal curve by lifting the head.
4. Get a secure grip (wear gloves if necessary); the weight should be gripped with the roots of the palms and
that of fingers of the hands. Use of the finger tips should be avoided as this will cause loss of grip
5. Lift using the thigh muscles
6. Keep the load close to the body – heaviest side to the trunk, avoid jerking, make a smooth movement
7. Move the feet - avoid twisting at the waist
8. Put down, then adjust – slide to the desired position.

3.3 MANUALLY OPERATED LOAD HANDLING
EQUIPMENT
1. Common Types – Hazards and Controls

Manual handling aids can manage the risk of manual handling injuries by decreasing the forces required to carry out
manual handling tasks and enhancing the postures and motions needed to perform the work.
The benefits of using lifting and handling aids are:
• Improved/maintained productivity
• Reduction in retraining costs
• Limiting compensation claims
• Reduction of injury/ill health to employees
Although manual handling aids and equipment can help to control the risk of injuries, they may create hazards such as:
• Equipment running over feet of handler

• Poor maintenance
• Not designed for the working condition and environment
• Not user-friendly: difficult to operate
• Poor design
When choosing to lift and dealing with aids, factors to think about:
• Include employees and safety officers throughout the assessment and when thinking about possible options,
so that you can be certain what you suggest will work in real practice and will not present any new hazards.
• Consult with providers on the suitability of new lifting and handling aid devices for your service.
• Examine devices is CE-marked and within the safe workload.
• Consider what maintenance will be required.
• Think about whether the equipment will fit the area it will be utilised in, e.g., exists sufficient room to manoeuvre
or enough headroom?
• Check that the equipment appropriates for the flooring location in terms of stability and ground surface area.
• Think about other factors related to presenting lifting and handling aids, e.g., website safety, support, info and
training.
Trucks and Trolleys
Hazards from Trucks and Trolleys:
• Trolleys can be difficult to manoeuvre;

• Overloading of trolleys and trucks making them too heavy to move
• Surfaces over which trolleys are pushed are uneven or mismatched;
• Trolleys with poor design - difficult to grip due to poor location of handles;
• The person pushing the trolley is unable to see over the load
Precautions or control measures when using trucks and trolleys
• Ensure wheel size and type are suitable for the job
• Provide wheel tracking mechanisms
• Reduce the weight of the truck / trolley

• Lessen the weight of the load positioned on the truck/trolley

• It is safer to push rather than pull
• Provide brakes to prevent truck/trolley running away while being moved
• Provide an appropriate handle design
• Locate handles at a height which suits the worker
• Restrict the maximum stacking heights to improve visibility, weight and posture for users
• Ensure regular pre-planned maintenance
• Provide low gradient ramps
• Provide automatically opening doors
Pallets Trucks
These are small trucks with two forks and are used to moving pallets. It is operated by one person.
Hazards from Pallets Trucks.
• People can be injured by material falling from the truck

• Overloading causing instability and loss of load
• Electric hazards
• People may be trapped between load and truck
• People may trip over forks of truck
• Manual handling injury of manually operated trucks
• Crush by load or truck
Precautions or control measures when using pallets trucks
• Conduct risk assessment prior to lifting

• Pre-use check to ensure truck is in good condition and fit for purpose
• Check the wheels to ensure they are not worn out, and no cracks are present
• Plan the lift and the journey making sure the route is clear and free from hazards and uneven surface
• Ensure sufficient space to operate truck
• Never exceed the advised capacity
• Ensure load is stable and secured
• Regular maintenance
• Use proper lifting techniques when loading/unloading
• Move the load slowly
• When operating manual truck, push the load (never pull the load)
• When going down on an incline go in reverse
• Allocate designated area for storing truck to avoid tripping hazard
People Handling Hoists
Hazards from people handling hoists
• Selection of the incorrect size sling-- which

can lead to pain if the sling is too little, and/
or the individual slipping through if it is too
large. Staff ought to know that sling sizes,
and coding differ between makers
• Wrong kind of hoist or sling for the person,
or task-- which can lead to insufficient
assistance and a risk of falling. Toileting
slings offer a significant degree of gain
access to, however little assistance
• Incompatibility of hoist and sling can lead
to the insecure attachment between the two. Source: Mobility Products for Disabled People

• Failure of equipment due to absence of

• maintenance/inspection
• Leaving a susceptible individual unattended in a hoist; or in a position where they may be at falling risk
• Hoist could overturn/collapse due to problematic surfaces, carry a private over a cross country on a hoist, or
not follow the maker’s directions
• Failure to utilise a safety harness, accessory or belt appropriately
• Instability when moving somebody on a mobile hoist-- resulting in them striking things
Precautions or control measures when using people handling hoists:
• Before raising, undertake an evaluation of the threats, taking account of the individual’s handling strategy, and
put in place actions to decrease the risk of injury
• Usage of appropriate type and size of sling and any configurations of loops or leg accessories
• Guarantee the sling works with the hoist
• Using other safety devices such as use of safety belt
• Check there is an adequate variety of handlers to perform the job securely in accordance with the handling
strategy.
• Consider all other pertinent info particular to the individual being hoisted
• Guarantee the sling and accessories are not captured on any equipment when starting the lift.
• Making sure that there are satisfactory systems in place for upkeep and inspection of hoists and slings in line
with the producer’s guidelines
• Ensure manufacturer information is supplied with suitable instructions for use, consisting of compatibility info
and assistance on the checks you ought to carry out prior to each usage
• Lifting equipment is completely examined by a skilled individual
• make certain that floorings and traffic paths are kept in excellent condition and free from blockages, which
there appropriate lighting and ventilation in the work environment
• Review the individual’s condition prior to each transfer to make surely continued viability for raising and
making use of the devices.
• Make sure the person’s weight does not surpass the SWL of both the hoist and sling
• Do not permit untrained personnel to use the hoist/sling unless they have had the needed training
• Hoists and slings need to not be adapted or misused
• Slings - make sure there are no indications of fraying, tears or deterioration, etc.; all sewing is present and intact
• Verify that the environment is entirely free from obstacles and the flooring devoid of slip and journey threats
• Guarantee the support surface area is safe and ready to get the person
• Do not leave the person ignored in a hoist
People Handling Aids
Compared with the use of manual transfer, the use of appropriate people handling aids to transport people lessens the
forces required for moving and handling people and can reduce the risk of manual handling injuries.
Examples of some people handling aids include:
• Slide sheets – low friction material placed under patient to allow easy repositioning in bed
• Electric profiling beds – electrically operated bed which allow adjustment using hand control set
• Slings – a support used for carrying a client while being moved with a hoist
• Stretchers – a rigid frame used to transport patient between locations
• Wheelchairs – a mobile chair used to transport person in a sitting position
Hazards from People Handling Aids
• Selection of the wrong size equipment

• Damage of equipment due to lack of maintenance/inspection
• Instability when moving someone resulting in them falling

• Electric beds can be large limiting manoeuvrability around narrow corridors and hospital lifts
• May not be compatible with other equipment
• Some aids, e.g., mobile hoists can be heavy and need strength and effort to move
• Misuse of equipment leading to injury
Precautions or control measures when using people handling aids
• Conduct a risk assessment prior to moving person

• Assessment of pain management
• Pre-use check to ensure equipment is undamaged and fit for purpose
• Users need to be trained in proper and safe use
• Make sure the person’s weight does not exceed the SWL
• Slings - ensure there are no signs of fraying, tears or deterioration, etc.; all stitching is present and intact
• Ensure the environment is free from obstacles
• Make sure there are satisfactory systems in place for maintenance and inspection
• Ensure each piece of equipment is correctly labelled
Effectiveness of Mechanical Aids
To be effective, mechanical help needs to be easy to use and not obstruct the employees smooth functioning of work.
The aid must match the job requirement and the type of load. When not in use, there must be adequate space for storage/
parking. Equipment must be easily available when it is required for work. It must be utilised by employees who have
been adequately trained in how to use them.
Use of aids must not create additional musculoskeletal disorders while manoeuvring them. They must be used as per the
manufacturer’s directions and must be properly tested and maintained regularly.

3.4 POWERED LOAD HANDLING EQUIPMENT
Powered equipment has to be located and suitably set up so as to reduce the threats, so far as is reasonably practicable,
from devices striking or a load striking another individual. A likewise a possibility of loads drifting and falling easily
and being unintentionally released.
Lifting equipment must be positioned and set up to reduce the requirement to lift loads over individuals and to prevent
crushing in extreme positions. It must be created to stop securely in the event of a power failure and not release its load.
Any devices, which is guided to follow a specific/fixed path will be enclosed with substantial and appropriate interlocked
gates and any required security in case of power failure.
When considering the use of fork trucks, there are some hazards particularly relevant to drivers such as:
• Fumes (diesel/petrol)
• Fire and explosion
• Collisions with buildings
• Manual handling
• Falling objects
• Noise
• Vibration
• Ergonomics
Pre-Use Checklist
Many organisations will require drivers to inspect their fork trucks every day prior to use, and the checklist should
include:
• State and pressure of tyres

• Working with lights, horns, brakes
• Warning devices working
• Appropriate mirrors
• Engine for oil leaks
• Water leaks
• Seat firmly fixed and ideal restraints where
fitted
• Signs of damage to bodywork and lifting
systems
• Security of devices fitted i.e. LPG tank
Parking of Fork-Lift Trucks
The precautions when parking fork-lift trucks should include:

Source: Handling & Storage Solutions
• Designated parking area
• Applying brakes
• Controls in neutral position
• Engine switch off
• Removing key and returning to responsible person
• Forks resting on floor
• Mast tilted slightly forward
• Not obstructing walkways
• Not blocking fire exits/fire points

So, in summary, the primary hazards associated with lift truck operations are:
• Overturning
• Overloading
• Loss of load
• Collision with people and objects
• Machine failure
• Falling from loading bays
• Explosions and fire – Fuel leaks/battery charging/electrical arcing
• Exhaust fume emission
• Passengers
• Inappropriate parking – Blocking entrances/exits
• Manual Handling – Adjusting forks/changing batteries
• Vibration – Travelling over uneven ground
• Noise
• Silent running
To ensure the safety of Fork Trucks, it is suggested that they inspected:
• Before its first use

• Daily by the driver
• At 12 monthly intervals (Or 6 months if lifting persons) by a competent person
• Complying with examination schedule in national legislation
• Following any circumstances that may endanger the safety of the truck
1. Lifts
Lifts can be categorised into the following groups:
• Electric.
• Hydraulic, direct or indirect; and
• Manual service type.
Safety requirements include:
• Precautions to prevent the car from falling e.g. double suspension ropes, provision of arrestor system and
support for the car in the event of power failure.
• Ensuring that controls are readable and reachable by disabled persons.
• Incorporation of an interlock mechanism whereby the car cannot move whilst the doors are open and that the
doors are only openable when the car is at a landing.
• Adequate lighting within the car.
• Means of access for rescue purposes
• Communication systems to contact the emergency services.
• Adequate provision for ventilation, given the number of persons in the car; and
• Notice stating the maximum number of passengers allowed
• Access to the lift shaft must be available only for maintenance purposes and controls in place to prevent
crushing at the extremes of travel of the car
Primary Hazards
The hazards associated with hoists and lifts are similar to those encountered in any lifting operation, namely:
• Overturning or collapse of the lift structure.

• The collision of the lifting car with other obstructions or persons in the vicinity.
• Failure of the support mechanism i.e. ropes, chains or hydraulic.

• Loss of the load; and

• Power loss or mechanical failure leading to the need to rescue persons trapped.
Passenger and Goods Lifts
These types of lifts may be found in a number of different locations, including workplaces and domestic premises, e.g.
blocks of flats.
Lifts provided for use in the workplace by the owner of the building must be safe and subject to inspection.
2. Hoists
Hoists are used extensively in the workplace and vary from the basic chain hoist often known as a block and tackle to
construction hoists used to carry material and people. There are also hoists which are designed to lift people in hospitals
etc.
The hazards of hoists are:
• Failure of the chains, slings, etc.

• Struck by the moving components of the hoist
• Being hit by materials falling from the platforms
• Falling down the hoist way from a platform
• Hitting against landing levels riding goods hoists
Precautions when using hoists
• Controls only operated from one position

• Clear visibility of landings
• Clear signals
• Secure objects being carried on goods hoists
• Avoid overfilling items on goods lifts
• Do not carry loose items on goods lifts
• No passengers on goods lifts
• Safe working load clearly marked
• Hoist properly examined and tested
• Suitable fencing and gates at all levels
• Training in use of hoists
3. Conveyors
Conveyors are used in all types of workplaces from supermarket checkout to quarries and construction sites
There are three basic types of Conveyor, and these are:
Belt Conveyor
Materials are transported on a moving belt. Trapping points are created between the belt and the rotating drum. Guards
can be fitted enclosing the sides.
Screw Conveyor
Materials are pushed forward by a rotating screw. Screw conveyors can cause terrible injuries and should be guarded or
covered at all times. A locking-off system is required for maintenance and repairs.

Source: Beumergroup
Roller Conveyor
The various types of rollers are:
• Power Driven Rollers: guards are required on power drives and in-running nips.
• Powered and Free Running Rollers: guards are required between each pair of powered and free running rollers.
• Free Running Rollers: no nips occur on these, but injuries can happen when people try to walk across them.
This problem can be solved by providing walkways.
Hazards of Conveyors
• Trapping limbs can be drawn into in-running nips

• Contact with moving parts, for example, drive components, screw conveyors
• Entanglement with roller, drive mechanisms
• Striking products falling from heights, incorrectly handled
• Effect-- e.g. striking head
• Products falling off
• Slips-- fall under rollers
• Manual handling of material
• Sound: mechanical movements produce sound
Control Measures
• Fixed guards on drums

• Enclosure of conveyed items by side guards

• Trip wires, if required, along the complete length of the conveyor

• Emergency stop buttons
• Safe access at regular intervals
• Avoid loose clothing
• Limit access
• Wearing head protection
• Routine maintenance by competent people
4. Cranes
There are particular problems associated with mobile cranes, and the following precautions should be taken, although
some of these are relevant to all types of cranes.
• Suitability of crane (lift capacity, reach, etc.)

• Stable ground conditions
• Use of outriggers
• Avoidance of obstructions
• Overhead power lines
• Designated and protected area
• Suitable and tested lifting tackle
• Correct slinging techniques
• Competence of personnel
• Load near ground if travelling
• Good visibility and communications
• Monitoring of wind speed
Source: Animalia Life

The principal hazards associated with any lifting operation using cranes are:
• Overturning can be caused by weak support, operating outside the machine’s capabilities and by striking
obstructions (Not relevant to overhead gantry crane)
• Overloading by going beyond the operating capacity or running radii, or by failure of safety gadgets
• Accident with other cranes, overhead cable televisions or structures
• Failure of Support by placing over cellars and drains, outriggers not extended, made-up or not solid ground
• Loss of Load from failure of lifting tackle or slinging procedure
• Failure of load bearing part
• High winds can affect the stability of outdoor lifting operations
Safety Measures When Using Cranes
A number of safety measures should be incorporated for the safe operation of the crane. These include:
• Pre-use check by operator

• Lifting equipment needs to be of adequate strength and stability for the load. Stresses induced at mounting
or fixing points must be taken into account. Similarly every part of a load, anything attached to it and used in
lifting must be of adequate strength
• SWL must be clearly marked on lifting machinery equipment and accessories in order to ensure safe use.
Wherever the SWL be contingent on the shape of the machinery, it must be clearly marked for each configuration
used and kept with the machinery. Equipment which is not designed for lifting persons, but which might be
utilised as such, must have appropriate markings to ensure it is not to be used for passengers.
• Rated capacity limiter which provides audible and/or visual warning
• Load limiting device to stop operation if SWL being exceeded
• Controls – should be clearly identified and of the “deadman” type
• Over-travel switches – limit switches to prevent the hook or sheave block being wound up to the cable drum
• Access – safe access should be provided for the operator and for use during inspection and maintenance/
emergency
• Operating position – should provide clear visibility of hook and load, with the controls easily reached
• Passengers – should not be carried without authorization, and never on lifting tackle
• Lifting attachments – chains, slings, wire ropes, eye bolts and shackles should be tested/examined
Operating Location: All nearby hazards, including overhead cables and bared power supply conductors, must be
recognised and removed or covered by safe working procedures such as locking-off and authorization systems. Strong
support needs to be available, and on new installations, the dimensions and strength of support needed must be specified.
The possibility of striking other cranes or structures needs to be analysed.
Operator Training: Operators and Riggers/slingers must be fit and strong enough for the work. Training needs to be
attended to the safe operation of the particular equipment.
Employee Safety during Lifting
Whenever lifting with any form of crane takes place, some precautions need to be taken to prevent accidents to
employees. These include:
• Not exceeding safe working load.

• Trained personnel (Crane operator, Slinger, Banksman(Signaller))
• Good communication between all operatives
• Properly maintained equipment
• Equipment has undergone statutory inspections
• Correct lifting accessories free from defect
• Ensuring load is secure
• Warning of lift taking place

• Ensuring load is secure

• Path free from obstacles
• Avoid overhead power lines
• All personnel clear of the load
• Load lifted vertically
• Lifted to correct height
• Moved at appropriate speed
• Put down in a safe position and tension released
• Safety helmets
• Adequate supervision
It should also be ensured that all employees working in the areas where lifting is taking place have been properly trained
in the procedures and are adequately supervised.
Lifting Accessories (Tackle)
Lifting Accessories (Previously called Lifting Tackle) are used to attach loads to lifting equipment.
This includes such items as Lifting beams, Chains, Wire ropes, textile slings, hooks, rings, shackles, eye bolts, etc.
Source: Albacom Ltd
When using Lifting Accessories, the main hazards are:
• Overloading:- Using tackle of insufficient strength for the job. This can occur by simply picking up the wrong
attachment or underestimating the load to be lifted
• Using Makeshift attachments:- All lifting accessories have to be tested after manufacture or repair
• Incorrect slinging arrangements:- Not properly attaching accessory e.g. too wide an angle on chain sling
• Damaged attachments. Chains can be deformed, cracked or stretched. Wire ropes can have broken wires or
kinks, and textile slings can be cut or abraded

• Uninspected attachments:- All lifting accessories should be inspected by a competent person every 6 months
• Damage to accessories during use:- This can mean not using packing at sharp corners leading to the accessory
being damaged
• Failure to examine accessory before use
• Lack of training
Precaution when using Accessories
• Entire accessories must be adequately tested and certified by a competent party

• Appropriately inspected by a competent person at regular intervals
• Safe Working Load (SWL) clearly marked
• Inspection prior to use
• No repair to accessories on site
• Not to be used for purposes not intended
• Packing between accessory and load
• Properly stored after use
• Training provides for staff in safe use
Safety in Lifting Operations
To ensure safety when undertaking lifting operations, we should consider the following 2 areas:
• Lifting Equipment
• Lifting Operations
Equipment – Lifting People
• All lifting devices should be of adequate strength and stability for each load considering tensions at the
installing or repairing point.
• Lifting devices for lifting individuals need to so far as reasonably avoid the persons utilising it from being
squashed, caught, struck or falling from the carrier.
• There should also be suitable devices to prevent the carrier from falling and that any person trapped in a carrier
is not exposed to danger and can be freed
• All lifting equipment and accessories should be clearly marked with their safe working load.
Operations – Planned and Supervised
All lifting activities should be suitably planned by a Competent Person, appropriately supervised and carried out in a
safe manner.
The person planning the lifting operation should have adequate practical and theoretical knowledge and experience
of planning lifting operations. The plan should address the risks identified by a risk assessment and determine the
resources required, the procedures, and the responsibilities so that the operation is carried out safely.
The precautions for safety in lifting operations include:
• Lifting devices located or installed in such a manner as to avoid the risk of injury from the equipment or the
load dropping or striking people or from the load drifting, falling easily or being launched mistakenly loads are
not brought or suspended over areas occupied by individuals. Where this is not possible a safe system of work
must be developed to minimise the dangers to individuals who may have to be listed below the load;
• Where it is essential to leave loads suspended, access to the threat zone is prevented, guarantee that the load
has been protected effectively;
• If the operator of lifting devices can not observe the full path of the load, either straight or by means of auxiliary
gadgets, it must be guaranteed that an accountable individual has proper ways of interaction to assist the
operator. Step ought to be required to avoid the load striking anything or anybody

• All lifting accessories used for protecting the load are suitable for the load taking into consideration the
accessory points on the load.
• Appropriate procedures must be taken to decrease the threats from lifting equipment due to its distance to other
things.
• Where essential the safe working load of the lifting equipment may need to be lowered to take into account the
ecological conditions and how it is being used
Inspection and Examination of Lifting Equipment
When the equipment is selected and put into service, it should be thoroughly examined by a competent, independent and
impartial person. Also, equipment must be thoroughly tested at regular intervals.
The person making the thorough examination should notify any defects to the Employer immediately, and a written
report must be produced. The reports should be kept until the next inspection for reference purposes

SUMMARY
This element discussed the meaning of ergonomics and its context to work related upper limb disorders and display
screen equipment and hazards, risk factors and controls associated with manual handling activities. In particular:
• Meaning of musculoskeletal disease and work related upper limb disorders (WRULDs).Examples of
repetitive operations such as keyboard operation, assembly of small components, bricklaying and checkout
operators; assessment of a display screen equipment workstation.
• Matching the workplace to individual needs of workers. The ill-health effects of poorly designed tasks and
workstations.
• The factors giving rise to ill-health conditions: task (including repetitive, strenuous); environment
(including lighting, glare); equipment (including user requirements, adjustability), and appropriate control
measures.
• Manual handling hazards and control measures: Common types of manual handling injury.
• Assessment of manual handling risks by considering the task, the load, the individual and the working
environment.
• Means of avoiding or minimising the risks from manual handling with reference to the task, load, individual
and working environment, eg design, automation, mechanization;
• Efficient movement principles for manually lifting loads to reduce risk of musculoskeletal disorders due
to lifting, poor posture and repetitive or awkward movements.
This element discusses hazards and controls for common types of manually operated load handling aids and equipment:
trucks and trolleys; pallet trucks; people handling hoists; people handling aids.
• Hazards, precautions and procedures for powered load handling equipment eg, fork-lift trucks, lifts, hoists,
conveyors and cranes
• Requirements for lifting operations: strong, stable and suitable equipment
positioned and installed correctly; visibly marked ie safe working load; ensure lifting operations are planned, supervised
and carried out in safe manner by competent persons ; special requirements for lifting equipment used for lifting people
Periodic inspection and examination/testing of lifting equipment.
REFERENCES
UK references
1. Statutory provisions
2. The Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992 (as amended) The Lifting Operations
and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998
3. The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (as amended) The Provision and Use of Work
Equipment Regulations 1998
Other references
1. Manual Handling, Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (as amended), Guidance on Regulations,
L23, third edition 2004, HSE Books, ISBN: 978-0-7176-2823-0 www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/l23.pdf
2. Safety in Working with Lift Trucks, HSG6, third edition 2000, HSE Books, ISBN: 978-0-7176-1781-4
www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg6.pdf
3. Safe use of lifting equipment, Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998, ACoP and
Guidance, L113, HSE Books, ISBN: 978-0-7176-1628-2 www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/l113.pdf
4. Safe use of work equipment, Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations, ACOP and Guidance, L22,
third edition 2008, HSE Books ISBN: 978-0-7176-6295-1 www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/l22.pdf

5. The law on VDUs – An Easy Guide, HSG90, second edition 2003, HSE Books, ISBN: 978-0-7176-2602-1
www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg90.pdf
6. Understanding ergonomics at work, INDG90(rev2), HSE Books http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg90.pdf
7. Work Related Upper Limb Disorders – A Guide, HSG60, second edition 2002, HSE Books, ISBN: 978-0-
7176-1978-8 www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg60.pdf
8. Work with display screen equipment: Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations
9. 1992 as amended by the Health and Safety (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2002: Guidance on
Regulations, L26, HSE Books ISBN: 978-0-7176-2582-6 www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/l26.pdf
EU/International references
1. Ambient factors in the Workplace, International Labour Organisation (ILO) Code of Practice (CoP), ISBN
92-2-11628-X
2. http://www.ilo.org/safework/info/standards-and-instruments/WCMS_107729/lang-- en/index.htm
3. Directive 2009/104/EC - use of work equipment https://osha.europa.eu/en/legislation/directives/workplaces-
equipment-signs-personal-protective- equipment/osh-directives/3
4. Ergonomic Checkpoints: Practical and easy-to-implement solutions for improving safety, health and working
conditions, second edition, ILO Geneva 2010, ISBN 978-92-2-122666-6 http://www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/groups/
public/---dgreports/---dcomm/--- publ/documents/publication/wcms_120133.pdf
5. Safety and health in the use of machinery, ILO CoP http://www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/groups/public/-
6. -ed_protect/-protrav/-safework/documents/normativeinstrument/wcms_164653.pdf
7. Safety of machinery – General principles for design – Risk assessment and risk reduction, ISO 12100:2010,
ISBN: 978-0-580-74262-0
8. Safety of machinery, basic concepts, general principles for design, basic terminology, methodology, ISO
12100-1:2003+A1:2009, ISBN: 978-0-580-68672-6
9. Safety of machinery, basic concepts, general principles for design, technical principles, ISO 12100-
2:2003+A1:2009, ISBN 978-0-580-68673-3

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Musculoskeletal Hazards and

Green World Group | 63

3.1 WORK RELATED UPPER LIMB DISORDERS�������������������������������������������������������������������������� 66

3.2 MANUAL HANDLING HAZARDS AND CONTROLS��������������������������������������������������������������� 72

3.3 MANUALLY OPERATED LOAD HANDLING EQUIPMENT������������������������������������������������� 79

3.4 POWERED LOAD HANDLING EQUIPMENT���������������������������������������������������������������������������� 83

Green World Group | 65

1. Meaning and Scope of WRULD

Source: Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique

Typical Examples of Repetitive Operations

Typical examples of repetitive actions that cause WRULDs include:

• Repetitive finger such as keyboard operation

66 | Green World Group

Ill Health Effects of Poorly Designed Tasks and Workstations

Table: Common Work Related Upper Limb Disorders

Injury Symptoms Typical Causes

Summary of symptoms of WRULDs

Green World Group | 67

2. Factors Increasing the Risk to Ill-Health Condition

Factors relating to the task should include:

• Strenuous pulling or pushing

Factors relating to the environment should include:

3. Control Measures (Precautions)

• Identify job involving frequent hand and arm movements

68 | Green World Group

4. Display Screen Equipment

There are considered to be 3 main health effects in the

These are conditions of the hand, neck, shoulder and

2. Eye and eyesight problems

3. Fatigue and stress

Other Minor or Alleged Health Effects

Green World Group | 69

4. Effects on pregnant women

Who is a DSE User?

However, a person would generally be considered if the following 7 criteria apply:

5. DSE Risk Assessment

Organisation Job rotation, breaks, Supervision, Procedures

Table Source: GWG

The requirements of a well suitable workstation are:

70 | Green World Group

Plan Work So There Are Breaks or Modifications of Activity.

Provision of Eye/Eyesight Tests and Spectacles

Provision of Training, Information

The design of Laptops etc. includes features such as

It is not possible to use an independent assessor to

One solution is to give laptop users sufficient training

Green World Group | 71

Manual Handling may be defined as:

“Supporting or moving a load by bodily force or hand.”

72 | Green World Group

1. Anatomy of the Spine

It has three primary functions:

• It is the “scaffolding” of the body

Posture is an important consideration which is

Most posture problems are related to an excessive

2. Manual Handling Risk Assessment

Green World Group | 73

This can be remembered using the acronym LITE

Source: High Speed Training

The elements to consider with the load ought to consist of:

74 | Green World Group

Factors relating to the task should include:

3.1 WORK RELATED UPPER LIMB DISORDERS�� 66

3.2 MANUAL HANDLING HAZARDS AND CONTROLS�� 72

3.3 MANUALLY OPERATED LOAD HANDLING EQUIPMENT�� 79

3.4 POWERED LOAD HANDLING EQUIPMENT�� 83