HAZARDOUS MANUAL TASKS

Identifying and Analyzing a Hazardous Manual Task in light of the Model Code of Practice for Hazardous Manual Tasks



Table of Contents

Introduction4

Summary of Findings4

Recommended Proactive Strategies7

Performance Indicators9

Legislative Summary10

Conclusion10

References12

Table of Figures

Figure 1 - Graphical Representation of the Problem with the Forklift5

Figure 2 - Standard Wooden Pallet used in Forklift Operations6

Figure 3 - Risk Control8

Figure 4 - Representation of Elevated Platform accessible via Ramp9

Identifying and analyzing a hazardous manual task in light of the Model Code of Practice for Hazardous Manual Tasks

Introduction

This paper will attempt to make use of The Model Code of Practice for Hazardous Manual Tasks in order to analyze a scenario for possible violations of the code (Safe Work Australia, 2011). The purpose of the analysis will be to identify the manner in which a particular scenario is failing to ensure safety against engagement, involvement and/or proximity of individuals from hazardous tasks. The discussion will begin by providing an introduction to the scenario and an elaboration of the findings for the identified non-compliant hazardous manual task. This will be followed by the recommendation of two pro-active strategies that can be utilized to achieve future compliance in this area. In order to do so adequately, the discussion will ensure the usage of evidence based information to explain and support the strategies and demonstrate how they would achieve compliance. The next subject of concentration will be the explanation of two performance indicators that can be used to whether or not the objectives of the proposed proactive strategies are being met; followed by a summary table listing other relevant occupational safety and health legislation and guidance materials that may be useful when researching hazardous manual tasks, before converging upon a conclusion.

Summary of Findings

The problem generated as a result of a problem with the forklift machine. The forklift machine was suffering from mechanical problems, as a result of which the forks were not lowering fully. Any item that had to be moved could not be picked up by the forklift. Instead, once the forks of the forklift were directly adjacent to the item, a team of men (ranging from two men to four men) would lift up the object and place it on the forks so that the forklift could then carry the object to the required destination. If the object had to be placed on one of the higher shelves, the forks would manage to do so easily. But any case in which an object had to be either picked up by the forklift machine from the floor or placed on the floor could not be executed without manual assistance.

Figure 1 - Graphical Representation of the Problem with the Forklift

The retailer had a bulk buying policy because of which goods come in frequently and in large numbers. Stock has to be maintained well in advance and shipments are generally large and require storing in the warehouse before they can be put on the shelf. Goods that come in have to be stored in the warehouse and are then retrieved to be ...