The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992

Regulation 4(1)(b)(i)

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

Commencement Information

I1Sch. 1 in force at 1.1.1993, see reg. 1

Column 1Column 2
FactorsQuestions

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?