Engineering Controls

Alter the task to eliminate the hazardous motion and/or change the position of the object in relation to the employee’s body — such as adjusting the height of a pallet or shelf.

• Manual Handling Tasks
• Material handling tasks should be designed to minimize the weight, range of motion, and frequency of the activity.
• Work methods and stations should be designed to minimize the distance between the person and the object being handled.
• Platforms and conveyors should be built at about waist height to minimize awkward postures. Conveyors or carts should be used for horizontal motion whenever possible. Reduce the size or weight of the object(s) lifted.
• High-strength push-pull requirements are undesirable but pushing is better than pulling. Material handling equipment should be easy to move, with handles that can be easily grasped in an upright posture.

Workbench or workstation configurations can force people to bend over. Corrections should emphasize adjustments necessary for the employee to remain in a relaxed upright stance or fully supported, seated posture. Bending the upper body and spine to reach into a bin or container is highly undesirable. The bins should be elevated, tilted or equipped with collapsible sides to improve access. Repetitive or sustained twisting, stretching, or leaning to one side are undesirable. Corrections could include repositioning bins and moving employees closer to parts and conveyors.

• Store heavy objects at waist level.
• Provide lift-assist devices and lift tables.