Manual Handling Injury Prevention
Ergonomics | 10-15 min
Summary
Manual handling - lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, and moving objects by hand - causes more workplace injuries than any other single activity category. Back injuries alone cost employers billions of dollars annually and cause lasting pain and disability for workers. The good news is that most manual handling injuries are preventable through proper techniques, job design, and the use of mechanical assists when appropriate.
Members get the full script, discussion questions, English + Spanish printable PDFs, and email delivery.
Start your 7-day free trialKey Points to Cover
- Manual handling causes more injuries than any other work activity
- Keep loads close to your body and lift with your legs
- Assess loads before lifting and get help when needed
- Use mechanical assist devices when available
- Report early symptoms of strain before they become serious
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should this safety talk take?
Plan for about 10-15 min, with extra time for questions and site-specific examples.
Can I tailor the discussion to my workplace?
Yes. Use the key points as a starting place and connect them to the tasks, equipment, and procedures your team uses.