Manual Handling on Construction Sites

Preventing Manual Handling Injuries at Work

Manual handling is the leading cause of injuries among Victorian construction workers, responsible for 30% of all significant injury claims in the past five years. In just the last two years, nearly 3,000 claims have been related to manual handling with over half leading to musculoskeletal injuries, such as back pain, strains lumbago and sciatica.

Manual handling includes any activity that involves lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, carrying, moving, holding, or restraining an object. It’s hazardous manual handling if it involves:

• Repeated or sustained force
• Sustained awkward posture
• Repetitive movements
• Exposure to sustained vibration
• Application of high force
• Handling people or animals
• Loads that are unstable, unbalanced, or hard to hold/ difficult to grip.

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are often seen as ‘just part of the job’ but they can cause long-term pain and disability – sometimes ending careers. Injuries can happen suddenly but more often; they develop slowly from repeated strain.

Warning signs you should look for include pain, stiffness, aching and inflammation in general, or discomfort in muscles and joints. Common MSDs can include:

• Sprains and strains
• Back and soft tissue injuries
• Joint or bone injuries
• Nerve or compression injuries
• Chronic pain

Tips to reduce the risk of manual handling injuries;

• Plan ahead to reduce double-handling of materials
• Use mechanical aids like cranes, hoists, trolleys or forklifts
• Ensure equipment is used correctly and is well maintained
• Deliver bulky items directly to the end location
• Order materials in smaller more manageable quantities (eg 20kg bags instead of 40kg bags)
• Rotate tasks to avoid prolonged repetitive movements
• Educate your workers on spotting and reporting manual handling hazards
• Train employees on safe handling methods (eg that the best working zone is when work is between shoulder and mid-thigh height and where the elbows are close to the body) and how to safely use any mechanical equipment and aids.
• Supervise employees, particularly young workers, while using mechanical aids and equipment.

A proactive risk management approach can significantly reduce the chances of injury.

Resources to Help

WorkSafe Victoria has developed a range of resources to support safer manual handling, including new guidance for plasterboard installation where back injuries are common.

• Working safely with plasterboard

Download industry specific manual handling safety posters.

• Construction safety posters

Watch WorkSafe’s manual handling videos to make sure you know the risks.

• Manual handling videos

Refer to the Hazardous Manual Handling Compliance Code for detailed legal guidance for employers.

• MH CC