Site Safe Manual Handling NZ 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is 'manual handling' in the context of NZ workplace safety?
- Any activity requiring a person to use physical force to lift, lower, push, pull, carry, hold, or restrain something (Correct answer)
- Only lifting heavy objects above head height
- Only carrying objects over long distances
- Using machinery to move objects
Correct answer: Any activity requiring a person to use physical force to lift, lower, push, pull, carry, hold, or restrain something
Manual handling covers any activity where a person uses physical force to move, hold, or restrain an object or person. It includes lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, carrying, and holding.
Question 2: What is the most common type of injury from manual handling in NZ?
- Musculoskeletal injuries, particularly to the lower back (Correct answer)
- Burns from hot objects
- Cuts from sharp edges
- Eye injuries from dust
Correct answer: Musculoskeletal injuries, particularly to the lower back
Musculoskeletal injuries, especially lower back injuries, are the most common result of poor manual handling. These injuries can be acute (sudden) or chronic (developing over time from repeated strain).
Question 3: What is the recommended first approach to managing manual handling risks?
- Eliminate the need for manual handling by using mechanical aids or redesigning the task (Correct answer)
- Train workers in correct lifting technique
- Provide back support belts to all workers
- Limit the weight each person can lift
Correct answer: Eliminate the need for manual handling by using mechanical aids or redesigning the task
Following the hierarchy of controls, the first approach is to eliminate the need for manual handling entirely, such as by using forklifts, hoists, trolleys, or redesigning the process.
Question 4: What factors increase the risk of injury during manual handling?
- The weight of the load, awkward postures, repetition, duration, and environmental conditions (Correct answer)
- Only the weight of the load
- Only the worker's age and fitness
- Only the distance the load must be carried
Correct answer: The weight of the load, awkward postures, repetition, duration, and environmental conditions
Multiple factors contribute to manual handling risk: the weight, size, and shape of the load; the posture required; how often the task is repeated; how long it continues; and environmental factors like heat, cold, and uneven surfaces.
Question 5: What is the correct technique for lifting a load from the ground?
- Keep the back straight, bend at the knees and hips, grip firmly, hold the load close to the body, and lift smoothly using the legs (Correct answer)
- Bend at the waist and lift quickly with the arms
- Keep the legs straight and bend the back to reach the load
- Lift with one hand to keep the other free for balance
Correct answer: Keep the back straight, bend at the knees and hips, grip firmly, hold the load close to the body, and lift smoothly using the legs
Correct lifting technique involves planning the lift, keeping a stable base, bending at the knees and hips (not the waist), gripping the load firmly, holding it close to the body, and using the strong leg muscles to lift smoothly.
Question 6: Is there a maximum weight limit for manual lifting in NZ law?
- No, there is no single legal maximum weight — risk depends on multiple factors beyond just weight (Correct answer)
- Yes, 25 kg for all workers
- Yes, 20 kg for women and 30 kg for men
- Yes, 50 kg is the maximum for any worker
Correct answer: No, there is no single legal maximum weight — risk depends on multiple factors beyond just weight
NZ law does not specify a single maximum weight limit for manual lifting. The risk of injury depends on many factors including how the load is handled, the posture required, frequency, and individual capability.
Site Safe Manual Handling NZ 1
What is 'manual handling' in the context of NZ workplace safety?