CITB Manual Handling and Lifting 2

Question 1

When carrying out a team lift, what is the most important factor?

Accepted Answer

One person should coordinate the lift and give clear instructions

Answer

In a team lift, one person must act as the coordinator, giving clear verbal instructions (e.g., 'lift on three'). Without coordination, team members may lift at different times or speeds, causing uneven loading and increasing injury risk.

Question 2

What should you do if a load is too heavy for you to lift safely on your own?

Accepted Answer

Use a mechanical aid or ask for help

Answer

If a load is too heavy to lift safely alone, you should use a mechanical aid (trolley, pallet truck, hoist) or arrange a team lift. Never attempt to lift beyond your capability — back support belts do not prevent injury from overloading.

Question 3

What is a musculoskeletal disorder (MSD)?

Accepted Answer

An injury or condition affecting muscles, joints, tendons, or the spine

Answer

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) affect the muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments, nerves, or spinal discs. They are the most common occupational health problem in the UK construction industry and are frequently caused by poor manual handling practices.

Question 4

When carrying a load, where should you position it relative to your body?

Accepted Answer

As close to your body as possible

Answer

Keeping the load close to your body reduces the strain on your back and arms. The further a load is from your body, the greater the leverage effect on your spine, which dramatically increases the forces on your lower back.

Question 5

Repetitive manual handling tasks can lead to which type of injury?

Accepted Answer

Repetitive strain injury (RSI) and cumulative trauma

Answer

Repetitive manual handling tasks can cause repetitive strain injuries (RSI) and cumulative trauma disorders affecting tendons, muscles, and nerves. These develop gradually over time and can become chronic if the repetitive activity continues without adequate rest or task variation.

CITB HS&E Operatives Practice Test

CITB HS&E Operatives Practice Test

CITB Manual Handling and Lifting 2