Hazardous Manual Tasks and Musculoskeletal Disorder

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Most jobs involve carrying out some type of manual tasks. However, some manual tasks are hazardous and can cause musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), such as sprains and strains of muscles, ligaments, and tendons.

A Hazardous Manual Task means a task that requires a person to lift, lower, push, carry or otherwise move, hold, or restrain any person, animal, or thing, either with high, sudden, repeated or sustained force, repetitive movement, awkward posture or exposure to vibration.

A Musculoskeletal Disorder means an injury to, or a disease of, the musculoskeletal system which can occur suddenly or over time (wear and tear).
This does not include an injury caused by crushing, entrapment (such as fractures and dislocations) or cutting resulting from the mechanical operation of plant.

The most serious musculoskeletal disorders are back injuries, often caused by poor lifting techniques. If your job requires you to perform manual handling, you will be provided with appropriate mechanical equipment and training in safe manual handling techniques.
If manual lifting of a load is required:

• Do not lift it if mechanical assistance is available – if mechanical assistance is not available, use team lifting where possible.
• Determine if the travel route is clear of obstacles and if you can reduce the frequency of this task.
• Avoid unnecessary bending – do not place objects on the floor if they must be picked up again later.
• Avoid unnecessary twisting – turn your feet, not your hips or shoulders, especially when bending.
• Keep the load close to the body – handle heavy objects close to the body. Avoid a long reach out to pick up an object.
• Lift gradually – lift slowly, smoothly and without jerking. and
• Keep in good physical shape – get proper exercise and maintain a good diet.

If during performing your duties you have indications of muscle strain or discomfort, contact your Supervisor immediately and report it.