Manual Handling Projects
Manual Handling Kerbstones
The manual handling associated with setting conventional kerb stones is a known high risk activity. The HSE have therefore essentially issued a requirement that only mechanised processes are adopted when laying new kerb stones. A problem therefore arose when a company developed a new lightweight plastic alternative kerb stone that could be set with minimal manual handling risk. HSEC conducted a detailed assessment of all the postures and forces involved in handling kerbstones, and were able to demonstrate that, subject to certain methods being adopted, the light weight kerbs stones could be used without any need for mechanised assistance.
"Because there has been some very creative "interpretation" of the recent Health and Safety Executive "Guidance Notes for Handling of Kerbs" by companies with a vested interest, it was important that we could support our claims with hard facts, and in a format that was trustworthy and professional. HSEC gave us that document and much more. We appreciate your professionalism and expertise,"
Greg Parkin, Sales Director, Pipeline & Drainage Systems PLC
Errors in Computerised Manual Handling Assessment Tool
HSEC compared the results of their detailed manual handling risk assessments with the conclusions of a computerised assessment tool. Significant errors were found and a revised tool was recommended which removed key errors and also made the tool more sensitive to risk factors not previously included in the original tool.
High Tech Warehouse System Fails to Reduce Risk.
HSEC assessed the manual handling operations throughout a warehouse where there had recently been a considerable investment in racking and high lift picking trucks. Although many of the handling operations were acceptable, the new picking system required a combination of postures and handling operations that probably resulted in a higher risk that the original method. Had the new method been assessed earlier, the specification could have been modified and the manual handling risks (and associated costs) reduced.
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