Introduction & Legal Requirement

Effective manual handling risk assessment involves employees and/or safety representative participating and contributing to the process that identifies hazards, assess and prevents or controls risk factors that can lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSD).

The Safety, Health & Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007 lay down the minimum health and safety requirements for the manual handling of loads in the workplace.

What will be assessed in a Manual Handling Risk Assessment?

The assessor reviewing the work area layout and the characteristics of specific tasks carried out in the work area, including weight of loads, frequency of handling the tasks and nature of loads.

The assessor will also assess

• Specific tasks carried out in the work area

• lighting and temperature
• The manual handling training received by the employees

Safecon will provide the client with a a final report, which includes the findings of the assessment and any recommendations or suggestions that may assist in reducing the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. 

Do you need Manual Handling Risk Assessments undertaken in your workplace? 

• Is manual handling conducted in the workplace?
• Are you in line with minimum legislative requirements in this area?
• Are any of your employees reporting back pain or off work as a result of a manual handling injury?