MANUAL HANDLING TOOLBOX TALK
Assess loads correctly, lift safely and prevent unnecessary strain.
Use before lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling or manually positioning loads.
Toolbox Topic
MANUAL HANDLING TOOLBOX TALK
Duration
5–7 MINUTES
Date
Site / Area
Supervisor
Company
Participants
Document No
OBJECTIVE
Prevent back, shoulder, hand and musculoskeletal injuries during manual handling by assessing the load, work area and individual capacity before starting.
TOPIC EXPLANATION
Manual handling includes lifting, lowering, carrying, pushing, pulling, holding and repetitive movements.
The load's shape, grip points, stability, travel distance and effect on visibility must be considered, not only its weight.
Use forklifts, pallet trucks, cranes, trolleys or other mechanical aids whenever reasonably practicable.
Workers must not be pressured to lift a load that cannot be handled safely.
REALISTIC SITE SCENARIO
A worker attempts to lift an irregular 30-kilogram equipment part from the floor without assistance.
The load has poor grip points and materials obstruct the carrying route.
The worker twists while lifting and suffers a back injury.
REMEMBER
Assess the load and centre of gravity before lifting.
Keep a stable stance and hold the load close to your body.
Bend your knees instead of bending from the waist.
Turn with your feet instead of twisting your torso.
Asking for assistance is the correct safety decision.
MAIN HAZARDS
Back and spinal injuries
Muscle strains and sprains
Hand and finger trapping
Dropped loads
Slips, trips and falls
Restricted visibility
Repetitive strain injuries
KEY CONTROLS
Assess the load's weight, size, shape and grip points.
Use mechanical lifting and transport equipment wherever possible.
Inspect and clear the carrying route before starting.
Use team lifting where required and appoint one person to coordinate.
Keep the load close to the body and avoid sudden movements.
Wear suitable gloves and safety footwear.
Do not lift loads beyond your safe capacity or control.
SUPERVISOR SCRIPT
Which manual-handling tasks create the most difficulty today?
What mechanical aids are available in our work area?
Are there obstacles along the planned carrying route?
Which tasks must not be completed by one person?
QUESTIONS FOR THE TEAM
Can you safely control this load alone?
Where is the load's centre of gravity?
Is the carrying route clear?
Is mechanical assistance or a second worker required?
Does the load restrict your view?
VERIFY BEFORE STARTING
The load and handling method have been assessed.
The carrying route is clear.
Required mechanical aids are available.
Team-lifting roles are agreed where required.
Suitable PPE is being used.
ATTENDANCE AND RECORD
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Supervisor Signature
HSE Approval
This toolbox provides general guidance. Apply site-specific risk assessments, work methods and company procedures.