Manual Handling Ireland Flashcards

What is the correct technique for lifting a load from the ground?

Answer: Bend the knees, keep the back straight, grip firmly, and lift using the leg muscles

The correct technique is to bend the knees, keep the back straight (natural curve maintained), get a firm grip, hold the load close to the body, and use the strong leg muscles to lift.

Why should you keep a load close to your body when lifting?

Answer: It reduces the strain on your back by minimising the lever effect

Holding a load close to your body reduces the moment (lever) arm, significantly reducing the forces acting on the spine and back muscles.

What should you do before lifting a heavy load?

Answer: Plan the lift, check the route, assess the weight, and ensure a clear path

Before lifting, you should plan the lift, assess the weight, check the route is clear, identify where to set the load down, and get help or equipment if needed.

What is the danger of twisting your body while carrying a load?

Answer: It puts rotational stress on the spine, greatly increasing injury risk

Twisting while carrying a load places rotational stress on the spinal discs and ligaments, significantly increasing the risk of back injury.

What is a musculoskeletal disorder (MSD)?

Answer: An injury or condition affecting muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, or joints

MSDs are injuries or disorders affecting the body's movement system — muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, joints, cartilage, and spinal discs — often caused by manual handling.

What is the role of a mechanical handling aid?

Answer: To reduce or eliminate the need for manual lifting

Mechanical handling aids such as trolleys, hoists, pallet trucks, and conveyors reduce or eliminate the physical demands of manual handling, lowering the risk of injury.