The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992

Regulation 4(1)(b)(i)

SCHEDULE 1 FACTORS TO WHICH THE EMPLOYER MUST HAVE REGARD AND QUESTIONS HE MUST CONSIDER WHEN MAKING AN ASSESSMENT OF MANUAL HANDLING OPERATIONS

Column 1	Column 2
Factors	Questions
1.  The tasks	Do they involve: holding or manipulating loads at distance from trunk? unsatisfactory bodily movement or posture, especially: twisting the trunk? stooping? reaching upwards? excessive movement of loads, especially: excessive lifting or lowering distances? excessive carrying distances? excessive pushing or pulling of loads? risk of sudden movement of loads? frequent or prolonged physical effort? insufficient rest or recovery periods? a rate of work imposed by a process?
2.  The loads	Are they: heavy? bulky or unwieldy? difficult to grasp? unstable, or with contents likely to shift? sharp, hot or otherwise potentially damaging?
3.  The working environment	Are there: space constraints preventing good posture? uneven, slippery or unstable floors? variations in level of floors or work surfaces? extremes of temperature or humidity? conditions causing ventilation problems or gusts of wind? poor lighting conditions?
4.  Individual capability	Does the job: require unusual strength, height, etc? create a hazard to those who might reasonably be considered to be pregnant or to have a health problem? require special information or training for its safe performance?
5.  Other factors	Is movement or posture hindered by personal protective equipment or by clothing?