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Method Statement 2.6 - Manual Handling

Document Information

Field Value
Document Reference MS 2.6
Issue Number 2
Issue Date 1 June 2026
Next Review 1 June 2027
Prepared By Sean Ashton
Approved By Aaron Mason, Director
Task No Task PPE to be worn Plant required Reference is made to the Team Pack risk assessment
2.6 Manual Handling As defined by on-site risk assessment Mechanical lifting aids, Trolleys, Barrows, Tail lifts N/A

Hazards

  • Musculoskeletal injuries
  • Back injuries and strains
  • Dropped loads causing injury
  • Slips, trips and falls

Environmental Impacts

  • Noise from mechanical handling equipment
  • Ground damage from heavy loads

Customer Impacts

  • Access restrictions during lifting operations
  • Noise disturbance

Training Required

Manual handling training for all staff

Additional Plant and Equipment

  • Pipe rollers for mains laying
  • Team lifting straps
  • Load assessment tools

Permits Required

As per site-specific requirements

COSHH Assessment Required

Not applicable for general manual handling

Sequence of Operations and Control Methods

Assessment Before Lifting

  • Check weight and dimensions of load
  • Read any weight markings on items
  • Assess if mechanical aids needed
  • Plan route and clear obstacles
  • Check ground conditions are stable
  • Young persons restricted to maximum 10kg

Individual Lifting Technique

  • Stand close to load with feet apart
  • Bend knees, keep back straight
  • Get firm grip on load
  • Keep load close to body
  • Lift smoothly using leg muscles
  • Avoid twisting while carrying
  • Lower load by bending knees

Team Lifting Operations

  • Required for items over 15kg
  • Appoint one person to coordinate
  • Ensure clear communication
  • Lift and lower together on command
  • Match pace to slowest person
  • Take regular breaks

Vehicle Loading/Unloading

  • Use mechanical aids where fitted
  • Never jump from vehicle beds
  • Avoid climbing on flatbed vehicles if possible
  • Pass items down to ground level
  • Arrange tools ergonomically in vehicles
  • Secure all loads properly

Monitoring and Health Protection

  • Regular breaks for repetitive tasks
  • Job rotation implemented
  • Report any injuries immediately
  • Stop if experiencing pain
  • Maintain good posture throughout
  • Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992
  • HSE Guidance L23 - Manual Handling