Ergonomics

Manual Materials Handling

Manual materials handling means moving or handling objects by lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, carrying, holding, or gripping. These tasks are most common in the Facilities Services department but can be found in some IT, SCA, library, field activity and bookstore tasks.

Identifying and Assessing Risk

In manual materials handling tasks, the most common risk factors for injury are force, posture and repetition. All tasks must be assessed for ergonomics risk factors and control measures must be implemented to mitigate or eliminate the risk. 

It is recommended that Supervisors use the WorkSafe BC MSI Risk Assessment Worksheet to identify and assess ergonomics risk factors present in manual materials handling tasks. This easy to use worksheet helps determine which risk factors pose a greater risk and prioritize risk controls. If Supervisors need help using the worksheet or implementing risk controls, please contact ergosafe@sfu.ca. 

Knowledge

• It's important to know what kind of exertion creates too much load on your back, and how you can use good lifting and carrying techniques to reduce the chance of injury.
• It's also important to exercise regularly.

Review the WorkSafeBC information regarding proper posture, safe lifting/carrying techniques and back exercises.

For back care training sessions email ergo_safe@sfu.ca

Resource Documents for Specific Tasks

• Field Research Ergonomics
• Safely Preparing for an Office Move ^NEW