Assessing the task, individual capabilities, load and environment

Assessing the task, individual capabilities, load and environment

The four crucial elements of risk assessment are: task, load, individual and environment. Assessment of these four elements is fundamental to a thorough undertaking of a risk assessment regarding any manual handling procedure.

A risk is seen as the chance of something happening that will have an impact on objectives. The consequences and likelihood of the identified risk can then be ascertained to demonstrate the level of risk involved in the manoeuvre.

The following assessments of these four crucial elements should be undertaken to identify the risks involved, thus enabling a problem solving approach to be undertaken to reduce or remove the risks before commencing any manoeuvre in keeping with the Health and Safety at Work Act (1974).

The task
• Does this manoeuvre need to be done?
• Does the task require unusual capabilities?
• Can the client move him- or herself or can they help?
• Is the client able to comprehend your instructions?
• What equipment or moving aids are available?
• Why is the task being undertaken?
• What are the start and end points of the task – where are we going?

Does the task involve:
• holding the load away from the trunk at a distance?
• unsatisfactory posture, including twisting, stooping, or reaching upwards?
• excessive movement of the load over large vertical distances?
• risk of sudden movement or unpredictable load?
• repetitive or prolonged physical effort?
• strenuous movement of the load by pushing or pulling?
• are there sufficient rest or recovery periods?

Individual capability
• Is the handler fit for the task?
• What experience do they have?
• Are they familiar with the equipment?
• Are they pregnant?
• Have they any history of back injury?
• Are they hindered by clothing or personal protective equipment?

The load
• Is the load heavy?
• Is the load bulky or unwieldy?
• Are there difficulties in holding the load?
• Is the load unstable or likely to be unpredictable?
• Could the load be harmful?

If the load is a client:
• What is the client’s diagnosis and will this affect the task?
• Can the client help?
• Is the client in pain?
• Are there other constraints such as tubes, lines or other equipment in use?
• Is the client anxious or confused?
• Are there any other factors with this individual that may affect the task?

The environment
• What space is available, or does this cause constraint?
• Can equipment, furniture or other items be moved around to create a better environment?
• Is the floor surface area safe, dry, slippery, even?
• Are the lighting conditions suitable?
• Are the temperature/conditions suitable?
• Is this a safe environment for movement and handling of clients?

A thorough assessment of all these factors and any other identified risk or hazards should always be undertaken prior to each move, and the identified risks reduced, removed or safe working practices used.