Manual Handling injuries are Preventable
WorkCover reminds businesses in regional areas to follow manual handling safety procedures to avoid workplace injuries.
According to data from WorkCover, there were more than 100,000 claims for manual handling injuries between 2006/07 and 2008/09.
General Manager of WorkCover’s Work Health and Safety Division, John Watson said manual handling injuries are preventable.
“Nearly every job involves some form of manual handling,” said Mr Watson.
“This can include lifting, lowering, pushing, carrying, moving, holding or restraining, as well as stretching, bending, sustained and awkward postures and repetitive movements.
“While it’s no surprise that it is the most common cause of workplace injury, there are many things businesses and workers can do to create a safer workplace.”
Mr Watson said workers should consider a number of things when moving loads in the workplace.
“How the load is to be moved, the distance to be moved, the distance to be moved, the duration and the frequency of the move, the characteristics of the load, and the working posture of the lifter must all be considered before a load is moved,” said Mr Watson.
“Businesses should also take into account the age, skill and experience of workers when assessing manual handling risks.”
Mr Watson also said businesses should have enough return to work plans for injured workers in the event of a manual handling injury.
“Getting back to work quickly is the best outcome for an injured worker,” said Mr Watson.
“It is important for injured workers, employers and case managers to work together to ensure sustainable return-to-work results.
“For those unable to return to their pre-injury job, WorkCover has a range of vocational rehabilitation programs to help workers return to suitable employment,” said Mr Watson.
He also said some businesses may need to make safety improvements to minimise the risk of manual handling injuries.
“WorkCover recognises that finding money for safety improvements can be challenging,” he said.
“To support small businesses and sole traders, WorkCover offers rebates of up to $500 to help purchase and install safety improvements through its Small Business Rebate Program.”
More information on manual handling safety can be accessed through the WorkCover website.
Report by Haydee - Do you have an OHS News Story - Let us know
03:08 pm, Monday 22 October, 2012
