The construction industry is characterized by the constant lifting of heavy objects. While lifting and material handling are the order of the day, we cannot ignore the associated risks. Lifting heavy equipment is a major cause of workplace injuries, particularly in the construction sector in Australia.
For this reason, we have taken the liberty to address the importance of proper lifting and material handling in the workplace. And we'll give you a few tips on how to do it right. We will also cover aspects such as: B. why the owners of Adelaide companies need to be more vigilant when handling hoists. Read on to find out more!
Proper care of the hoists is of the utmost importance
Before we even give you tips on the correct lifting and material handling, we cannot emphasize the importance of caring for your equipment enough. Company owners must ensure that their equipment is in the best possible condition at all times. Regular maintenance is mandatory. You must comply with the maintenance times specified in your operating instructions. Skipping service appointments is not an option since using faulty equipment is considered a professional hazard. The functionality of the equipment must be checked. Are all bolts and screws intact? Are the lubricated parts actually lubricated?
Get the necessary training
It is not advisable to allow workers to use equipment that they are not trained to use. Operating instructions are not without reason. Use it. Make sure that your employees are familiar with the necessary steps and procedures for handling the devices. In addition to the required training, it is also important that they receive approval from their respective superiors. The foreman in question knows whether the device is fully serviced and ready for use. When handling heavy loads, there is no space for cutting corners and skipping. Your employees' lives literally depend on it.
Regular inspection before use
Even after the supervisor has given approval, employees must check the equipment themselves before use. Just because the hoist worked perfectly yesterday did not mean that it works today. Routine inspections of all hoists before use must be mandatory. Check that the mechanism works properly. Do not use the machine as soon as an operator determines that something is not in the right place, be it a missing screw or a rigid operation. Better have it checked right away.
Make the necessary preparations
After inspecting the equipment, workers must make the necessary lifting preparations. Think about how heavy the load is and where it is being taken. Is the load easier to pull or push? Do you need support from another person? Is the path clear of obstacles? Are there slippery or uneven areas? Consider all angles to avoid mistakes.
Ensure proper handling
Once you are satisfied that the equipment is in good condition, appropriate handling techniques must be used to avoid muscle tension. Always make sure that employees do the following:
- Wear protective equipment.
- Hold the load as close to your body as possible.
- Avoid twisting the body when lifting or carrying the load. The nose, shoulders and toes should always point in the same direction.
- Avoid reaching out.
- Always bend at the knees and not at the hips.
- If possible, use the necessary handles.
- Rest in between when lifting several heavy objects.
Consider the weight of objects
As you know, the heavier the load, the greater the strain on your shoulders and joints. Use the right equipment for the load in terms of weight. Does the load need a forklift or a crane? If possible, try to split the load into smaller quantities.
Take the environmental factors into account
Environmental factors also play an important role when lifting devices. For example; cold weather reduces muscle flexibility. On the other hand, extremely hot temperatures cause heat stress and premature fatigue. It is important that your employees wear the right clothes depending on the temperature. When it's hot, encourage your employees to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Finally, make sure there is enough light on site. Workers should not have to work in low light environments. This only increases the risk of stumbling and falling.
last words
Proper lifting and material handling is a collective responsibility. Everyone has to play their part. Owners must purchase robust equipment from reputable companies and perform routine inspections to ensure operational efficiency. Your employees should be equipped with the correct personal protective equipment and work in a safe environment with adequate lighting. Employees must ensure that they use the correct equipment for the intended task, read the operating instructions and receive the correct training.
Did you find our tips helpful? Make sure that you install them at all times and that you comply with the required safety regulations. The safety of your employees is your responsibility and can prevent you from losing millions in civil lawsuits.
