Moving inanimate objects

Whatever the object to be moved and handled, it is essential to perform a thorough assessment of risk and to follow the simple principles of safe manual handling as outlined above when undertaking any manoeuvre.

Whilst the lifting of clients is not generally recommended there will be occasions when it is necessary to lift inanimate objects. The Manual Handling Operations Regulations (Health and Safety Executive 1992) offer some numerical guidelines on acceptable weights (see Table 2.1). Lifting within these boundaries is unlikely to result in injury.

Table 2.1 The Manual Handling Operations Guidance on weight limits for lifting and lowering

Height object held at	Weight limit for	Weight limit for
	Man                       Woman Object held at arm’s length	Man                         Woman Object held close in to trunk
Full height Shoulder height Elbow height Knuckle height Mid-lower leg	5 kg                   3 kg 10 kg                 7 kg 15 kg                 10 kg 10 kg                 7 kg 5 kg                   3 kg	10 kg                     7 kg 20 kg                     13 kg 25 kg                     17 kg 20 kg                     13 kg 10 kg                      7 kg

However, even in these circumstances, assessment of the task should be undertaken to facilitate the reduction of risks. The regulations also state that information should be provided regarding the weight of loads. Sometimes this information is not always available. Attempts to gauge the weight of an object by its size or appearance alone have been shown to be wholly inaccurate; therefore if unsure don’t guess – seek help.

It is important to remember that the figures given in Table 2.1 are provided as guideline figures, and should always be used in conjunction with the risk assessment of:
• task
• individual capabilities
• load
• environment.

The principles of safe manual handling should always be followed:
• spine in line
• stable base
• load kept close to the body
• head moving up and leading
• only manually handling if necessary
• knowing and using appropriate equipment/aids
• correct holds
• lowered centre of gravity
• controlled manoeuvre
• good communication.