Manual Handling Awareness

Manual handling awareness is just part of a range of preventative measures that should be taken to prevent injuries at work. To understand this, we have to define Manual handling. Manual handling is any activity that includes lifting or putting down, pulling or pushing, carrying, supporting or moving an object, person or animal using the hand or any other part of the body. Many people wrongly assume that manual handling only applies when items are lifted. However, this is not fully true, as manual handling could be any movement of an object.

 

Common Injuries due to poor Manual Handling Awareness

The purpose of Manual Handling Training and raising awareness of proper manual handling techniques is to prevent workplace injuries. The most common causes of manual handling injuries are:

• Poor posture.
• Heavy lifting or using excessive force.
• Excessive repetition of a task.
• Lack of time to recover from a task.
• Twisting and stopping activities.
• Pushing or pulling loads over a prolonged distance.
• Reaching or lifting away from the body.
• Standing or sitting in a static position without regular changes in posture.
• Person’s own susceptibility to injury.

About a third of all workplace accidents reported are as a direct result of manual handling, lifting and carrying.

 

Business Costs of Manual Handling Injuries

Manual handling injuries resulting from poor manual handling awareness can have a serious effect on both, employers and employees. For example, the following might count as business costs:

• Legal advice and insurance costs.
• Legal action, possibly including compensations.
• Sick pay.
• Lost production and sales.
• Equipment and stock losses or damages.
• Time and money spent on investigation and improvements.
• Recruitment and payment of cover/replacement staff.

 

Human Costs of Manual Handling Injuries

When compared to human costs, business costs are insignificant. The human costs are usually long term and significant. For example:

• Pain and suffering.
• Disability, possibly long-term.
• Health care and rehabilitation.
• Loss of earnings.
• Emotional and financial burden on family.
• Potential loss of life.

 

Reducing the Risks and promoting Manual Handling Awareness

Employers are required by law to assess manual handling tasks with the aim of avoiding or reducing risks. Trained employees have a legal duty to follow safe working practices and use the correct techniques they have been shown.

As previously mentioned, human and business costs that manual handling injuries cause can be significant. Therefore, avoidance of injury in the first place should be the main focus. In other words, avoidance of injury is to everyone’s advantage. To that end, when we talk about manual handling, both employer and employee must consider:

• The Hazard – Things that have potential to do harm.
• The Risk – The likelihood of the hazard actually doing harm.
• Control Measures – Actions or procedures put into place to reduce risk to an acceptable level.

 

Manual Handling Awareness Training

Manual handling training for employees, is part of a range of preventative measures that should be taken to prevent injuries at work. This is why eLearn Safety has developed a fully online Manual Handling Awareness course. This course can stand alone and can be used as a regular refresher on manual handling theory. In addition, it can be part of a blended manual handling training. In that case, following completion of the theory online, each participant will have to complete the practical session which consists of:

• Practical scenarios.
• Kinetic principles.
• Written assessment based on all of the course content.

This blended learning training course has been designed by qualified tutors to assist the employer to comply with current legislation. In addition, it will inform and educate an employee how to prevent injuries by teaching them good manual handling techniques.

In addition, the Health and Safety Authority of Ireland (HSA) offers a significant amount of resources in relation to Manual Handling via their Workplace Health section of their website.

 

Online Health and Safety Training

Proactive Health and Safety training is critical to ensure a safe workplace. An effective training program can reduce the number of worker injuries and deaths. It can also reduce instances of property damage, legal liability, illnesses, and missed time from work.

Health and Safety training helps establish a culture in which employees themselves help promote proper safety procedures while on the job. It is important that new employees be properly trained and embrace the importance of workplace safety. The role of training in developing and maintaining effective hazard control activities is a proven and successful method of intervention.

This is why we have established Myelearnsafety school. We pride ourselves in how we guide, support and mentor our students. They receive support throughout their learning experience and into their working lives. Our staff have extensive training experience and also have many years industry experience. We understand the challenges that exist within Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety. Our priority is to ensure that all learners are fully prepared to differentiate themselves in the workplace after completing our Health and Safety courses.

Myelearnsafety offers fully online Health and Safety courses.

To find out more, please check our Courses page.

Alternatively, should you need any additional information, please do not hesitate to let us know via email info@elearn.ie

Health and Safety in the Workplace

Effective Health and Safety management in the workplace is an important element of every organisation. Every year, accidents at work cost the Irish industry billions of euros. The effects of the injuries sustained vary from minor to major injuries. In some cases, employees will be needing an extended period of time off work. In other cases they will never be able to work again. Unfortunately, in some cases they will receive injuries that would be fatal. The fact is, many of these accidents are avoidable and should have not happened.

Much of Health and Safety relies on ensuring that the appropriate risk precautions are in place. Additional information about workplace hazards are available in our blog entry from 21 April 2023 Workplace Accidents and Their Prevention. If individuals are aware of potential hazards and adopt safe working practices, they can control the risks and reduce the number of accidents and injuries.

 

Workplace Fatalities from 2017 to 2022

The work-related injuries include any injuries incurred by workers in the course of their work. These injuries can range from minor injuries to the most serious injuries that resulted in death. According to the Health and Safety Authority of Ireland and the Health and Safety Statistics they publish, the following is workplace fatalities statistics for years 2017 – 2022:

• 2017 – 47 fatalities.
• 2018 – 39 fatalities.
• 2019 – 48 fatalities.
• 2020 – 54 fatalities.
• 2021 – 38 fatalities.
• 2022 – 26 fatalities.

There have been 230 fatalities in Ireland since 2017.

Health and Safety in the workplace is an important aspect of any organisation. All work related fatalities are preventable through vigilance and effective Health and Safety management. All employees and persons affected by business activities deserve to go home after their work day has ended.

 

Common Causes of Accidents in the Workplace

Whilst not all workplace accidents result in death, the majority of them will result in an injury. Common causes of accident in the workplace are often:

• Slips, trips and falls.
• Poor lifting and carrying.
• Being struck by vehicles or moving objects.
• Falls from height.
• Misuse of machinery.
• Incorrect use of harmful substances.

Work related activities can also be responsible for diseases and ill health. These, in some cases, can have long term, irreversible effects. For example:

• Hearing loss from noisy workplaces.
• Stress
• Skin disorders.
• Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS).
• Back pain.
• Asbestosis and cancer as a result of asbestos exposure.
• Work-related lung diseases and cancers.

These hazards can be controlled by assessing risks and putting in effective controls. Effective health and Safety practices will not only minimise the pain and personal consequences to individual employees, but also reduce the financial impact on employers and services funded by the taxpayer.

 

Business and Human Costs of Ineffective Health and Safety in the Workplace

The costs on the business for ineffective Health and Safety in the Workplace can be significant:

• Legal advice and insurance costs.
• Legal action, possibly resulting in compensation.
• Sick pay.
• Lost production and sales.
• Equipment and stock losses and damage.
• Time and money spent on investigations and improvements.
• Recruitment and payment of cover/replacement staff.

These, however, can fade into insignificance when weighed against the human cost:

• Pain and suffering.
• Disability, possibly long-term.
• Health care and rehabilitation.
• Loss of earnings.
• emotional and financial burden on family.
• Potential loss of life.

Safe working conditions are a prerequisite for a healthy and productive workforce.

 

Ineffective Health and Safety in the Workplace – From the Press

The Health and Safety Authority reported on 26th June 2023 that the company was fined €750,000 after fatal fall from height in workplace. The fatal incident occurred when a worker stepped onto a fragile surface. The fragile surface that sealed a vertical service duct which gave way and the worker fell from a height.

Mark Cullen, Assistant Chief Executive of the Health and Safety Authority, commented, “Where there is a known risk in a workplace, in this case working from height, employers in control of that workplace have a duty to ensure that the appropriate precautions are in place. This will protect employees and others who may be carrying out work activity at the place of work under their control. Failure by the employer in this case has led to the tragic death of a worker. We urge employers to carry out risk assessments and engage with their employees and others to ensure that incidents like this one are prevented.”

 

Online Health and Safety Training

Proactive Health and Safety training is critical to ensure a safe workplace. An effective training program can reduce the number of worker injuries and deaths. It can also reduce instances of property damage, legal liability, illnesses, and missed time from work.

Health and Safety training helps establish a culture in which employees themselves help promote proper safety procedures while on the job. It is important that new employees be properly trained and embrace the importance of workplace safety. The role of training in developing and maintaining effective hazard control activities is a proven and successful method of intervention.

This is why we have established Myelearsafety school. We pride ourselves in how we guide, support and mentor our students. They receive support throughout their learning experience and into their working lives. Our staff have extensive training experience and also have many years industry experience. We understand the challenges that exist within Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety. Our priority is to ensure that all learners are fully prepared to differentiate themselves in the workplace after completing our Health and Safety courses.

Myelearnsafety offers fully online Health and Safety courses.

To find out more, please check our Courses page.

Alternatively, should you need any additional information, please do not hesitate to let us know via email info@elearn.ie

 

Ergonomics in the Workplace

Ergonomics in the workplace is one of the most overlooked workplace related hazards. Ergonomics is the science of fitting the task to the person by designing equipment and apparatus that fits well with the human body and the way that it moves. People come in all shapes and sizes. This is why all workstations should be designed with adjustable features. For example, adjustable seats and work platforms. This will enable the worker to work comfortably. Uncomfortable workstation can result in people stooping, stretching, overreaching, twisting, etc. This can cause muscle fatigue and strain. In addition, it can possibly cause longer term damage or deformation.

 

Risk Assessing the Ergonomics in the Workplace

Some of the factors that should be considered when risk assessing the ergonomics of work activities are:

• The degree of force that is needed to do the job.
• The environmental conditions – lighting and temperature.
• Adequacy of rest periods.
• The repetitiveness of the task.

Any machine expected to carry out repetitive motions must be regularly maintained and parts replaced as they wear out. Failure to maintain machinery may result in breakdown. People may also be expected to carry out similar repetitive tasks and suffer wear and tear as a result. This can cause them to suffer permanent damage and being unable to work. Any activity involving high repetitions should be looked at carefully and redesigned to avoid this as far as possible.

 

Enabling Ergonomics in the Workplace

Some of the effective measures to enable good ergonomic practices in the workplace are:

• Alternating tasks and work breaks to avoid repetitive strain injuries.
• Providing comfortable working temperatures and adequate ventilation.
• Providing sufficient lighting and minimising glare by glazing windows or supplying blinds.
• Minimising vibration.
• Mechanising the task.
• Regular health tests may be necessary and should be promoted by employers.
• Training will also help employees to be more aware of good practice.

Occupations commonly associated with musculoskeletal problems are computer users, checkout operators, dentists and workers on production lines. One of the preventive measures that should be taken to prevent injuries at work is Manual Handling training. The eLearn Safety provides blended learning Manual Handling course has been designed by our qualified tutors to assist the employer to comply with current legislation.

 

Ergonomics in the Workplace and Display Screen Equipment

Display screens cause many instances of eye and wrist strain, back problems and headaches. Some additional insights into problems caused by use of display screens can be found in our blog entry Prolonged Static Sitting at Work from 26 May 2023.

Many of the problems associated with the use of display screens can be mitigated by implementing effective measures to enable good ergonomic practices as listed in the previous paragraph.

Some additional measures should be provided/enabled:

• Eye tests for regular users of display screen equipment.
• Sufficient desk space to provide support for the forearms and at a height where they are parallel to the surface of the desk.
• Height adjustable seating with back support and footrests available if necessary to facilitate correct posture and comfort.
• Height adjustable display screens to enable them to be positioned so the eyes are level with the top of the screen. They should have filters (if older models to minimise flicker and glare), screen controls and be placed to avoid reflections on the screen.
• Adequate work space under the desk to allow the operator to change positions.
• Regular training in recognising the adverse effects that incorrect use can have on the body and how to correct incorrect postures. eLearn Safety offers a fully online VDU/DSE course.

Staff experiencing discomfort and pain whilst using display screen equipment should report these issues to their employer as soon as they become aware of them. To help understand the use of VDU/DSE, the Health and Safety Authority has published useful Display Screen Equipment – (DSE/VDU) – Frequently Asked Questions.

 

Online Health and Safety Training

Proactive Health and Safety training is critical to ensure a safe workplace. An effective training program can reduce the number of worker injuries and deaths. It can also reduce instances of property damage, legal liability, illnesses, and missed time from work.

Health and Safety training helps establish a culture in which employees themselves help promote proper safety procedures while on the job. It is important that new employees be properly trained and embrace the importance of workplace safety. The role of training in developing and maintaining effective hazard control activities is a proven and successful method of intervention.

This is why we have established Myelearsafety school. We pride ourselves in how we guide, support and mentor our students. They receive support throughout their learning experience and into their working lives. Our staff have extensive training experience and also have many years industry experience. We understand the challenges that exist within Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety. Our priority is to ensure that all learners are fully prepared to differentiate themselves in the workplace after completing our Health and Safety courses.

Myelearnsafety offers fully online Health and Safety courses.

To find out more, please check our Courses page.

Alternatively, should you need any additional information, please do not hesitate to let us know via email info@elearn.ie

 

Manual Handling and Why Is It Important?

Manual handling is the leading cause of injuries and illness in the workplace. According to research, musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) account for most of these problems in Ireland. This is often as a result of repetitive strain injuries. A specific training is required to help protect employers and employees from the risks associated with incorrect manual handling.

But what is manual handling exactly and why else is it so important?

 

What is Manual Handling Exactly?

Manual handling refers to either supporting or transporting a load using bodily force and the use of the word “load” extends beyond inanimate objects to people and animals (e.g. lifting, pushing, pulling and carrying a load). If these type of actions are carried out without the correct body posture or procedure, there is always a risk of injury.

In fact, musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) such as muscle, joint or bone problems are the most common types of work-related illness. This means incorrect load handling is ahead of stress, anxiety and depression when it comes to the cause of injuries or illness among employees.

Manual handling courses are designed to teach people how to identify, approach and perform physical tasks in a way that reduces the risk of injury. It’s also important to know about the legal requirements that oversee health and safety in the workplace.

 

Legal Requirements for Health and Safety at Work

The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) is responsible for overseeing health and safety at the workplace in Ireland. There is also a piece of legislation, the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, which attaches responsibilities related to manual handling to both employees and employers.

Simply put, employers are required to protect the health and safety of their employees as a result of what they do. While these employers need to undertake regular risk assessments, there is also a need to provide a relevant training. The training has to focus on areas including load, task and working environment. Failing to adhere to these requirements can result in severe formal enforcement action by inspectors on behalf of the HSA.

 

Is manual handling training necessary?

Training is mandatory when manual handling in a particular role involves a risk of injury. If an employer is unsure as to whether or not such training is needed, it is usually best to stay on the safe side and proceed with this training for staff.

 

Why Manual Handling Training is So Important

Manual handling training helps prevent injuries in the workplace. It teaches employees to avoid tasks in which they might incur an injury. It also helps employers establish health and safety measures to protect against injuries in general.

The implications of related injuries is significant for both employer and employee. Such injuries are common and can happen in any type of workplace. The cause might be things like bad posture, heavy labour or repetitive movements. This last one is especially important to note. Many injuries are caused over time by tasks which require the repetition of a particular action. Such tasks are often the cause of musculoskeletal disorder (MSD).

For example, it is often the case that employees will need to move, lift or carry items as part of their daily work schedule. These actions usually involve stretching, bending or twisting. Without the appropriate training, an individual is likely to perform these tasks incorrectly. This is why musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) is such a big problem for employers and the number one reason employees need to take time off work as a result of illness.

 

The True Cost of Manual Handling Injuries at Work

HSA officials frequently carry out inspections and take enforcement action whenever necessary. This can result in unplanned costs to train employees or improve aspects of health and safety in the workplace. However, the cost of ignoring the importance of manual handling training lies elsewhere.

As a result of injuries and illness, employers often need to bear significant costs due to absenteeism, overtime and loss of productivity. The training of replacement staff can result in further costs. There is also the risk of having to pay compensation to the employees. As for the injured person, their inability to do the job as normal can have long-reaching consequences. Such consequences can affect the health, mobility or future job prospects in the same industry.

 

Employer Responsibility

Legislation requires employees to take care of their own health and safety. In addition, they must follow systems of work according to the instruction provided. Individuals are also responsible for reporting possible hazards and informing managers about incidents using the proper channels. Meanwhile, Employers need to carry out risk assessments on regular basis. Suitable equipment should be used to reduce the need for human touch. When physical handling is required, employers must provide manual handling training for their employees.

 

But what does a manual handling training course actually look like?

This training is designed to ensure participants are properly trained in the safe practices and principles of manual handling. The course should abide by legislation and provide sufficient guidance and education to ensure the best possible health and safety measures are in place.

You will find diagrams, videos and practical guides within manual handling training and this course should be designed to meet legal requirements by a qualified tutor. The course content should enable employees to describe techniques for manual handling and recognise hazardous situations, while understanding the law and their own responsibility to health and safety.

Participants will usually complete an online theory course for manual handling before arranging for a practical session which takes them through an assessment for safely lifting, pulling and carrying objects in the workplace.

Now, are you an employer in need of manual handling training for your staff? Maybe you need some training yourself? MyElearnSafety offers a Manual Handling Awareness Course that fully adheres to the legal requirements in Ireland for health and safety in the workplace.

Elearn Goes International with Online Health and Safety Training

Reiss Global Employees use Elearn to get certification.

ELearn’s Health & Safety Training solution allowed Reiss to provide an online course available 24/7 on any device connected to the internet and in an innovative approach. The training was made available on the point of sale machines within each store. The eLearn system automatically tracks participation and progress and keeps records of the training.

Reiss, modern fashion brand company,  had implemented an in-house Health and Safety training practice. This required the trainer to travel to multiple locations from Glasgow to London to deliver “induction” courses. The travel time and distances to be covered created significant inefficiencies and did not automatically record the training given which had to be logged manually and re-entered into a central data base.

With the new online training course, staff have ample opportunity to avail of the training and access the knowledge base. It has led to a significant reduction in trainer’s travel time and is able to reach all REISS stores internationally from England to Japan.  This regulated and measured online course gives Reiss confidence and peace of mind that they are delivering excellent training and have records to prove this. It also assists new staff even before they have set foot in a shop.

If you or your company would like to know more about our online training, contact us or simply click on the relevant course.