Ergonomics and Manual Handling

Ergonomics and Manual Handling: Importance in Terms of Occupational Health and Safety

A significant portion of workplace accidents and occupational diseases in working life arises from incorrect manual handling techniques and ergonomic risks. Especially heavy lifting, pushing-pulling, repetitive movements, and improper working positions are among the main causes of musculoskeletal disorders. Occupational health and safety practices highlight ergonomic solutions and safe handling methods to minimize such risks.

What is Ergonomics?

Ergonomics is the science that aims to adapt the work environment, equipment, and tasks to human physical and mental capacity. The main goal is to protect employee health, increase productivity, and prevent workplace accidents.

Risks of Manual Handling

Incorrect manual handling activities can cause various health problems for employees:

• Herniated discs and lower back injuries
• Neck and shoulder pain
• Knee and joint disorders
• Muscle fatigue and cramps
• Chronic musculoskeletal diseases

According to statistics, more than 25% of workplace accidents occur during manual handling (ILO, 2021).

Ergonomic Risk Factors

• Weight: Carrying loads exceeding employee capacity.
• Frequency: Repetitive lifting or carrying movements.
• Posture: Working with bending, twisting, or unbalanced positions.
• Environmental conditions: Narrow spaces, slippery floors, poor lighting.
• Psychosocial factors: Excessive work pressure, low motivation.

Safe Manual Handling Techniques

Employees’ knowledge of proper handling methods significantly reduces ergonomic risks:

1. Check the Weight: Test the load before lifting.
2. Take the Correct Position: Bend the knees, keep the back straight, avoid bending from the waist.
3. Close Contact: Hold the load as close to the body as possible.
4. Avoid Sudden Movements: When turning, use the feet instead of the waist.
5. Avoid Overloading: Carry in parts rather than all at once.
6. Use Mechanical Assistance: Prefer tools such as pallet jacks, forklifts, or lifting devices.

Responsibilities of Employers and Employees

For Employers

• Design ergonomic working environments,
• Provide manual handling training to employees,
• Supply mechanical assistance equipment,
• Consider ergonomics in risk assessments.

For Employees

• Follow safe lifting techniques,
• Use protective equipment,
• Avoid carrying excessive loads,
• Report risky situations to management.

Ergonomics and manual handling are fundamental issues in occupational health and safety. Incorrect handling techniques not only harm employees’ health but also negatively affect business productivity. With proper ergonomic practices, training, and the use of suitable equipment, musculoskeletal disorders can largely be prevented. A safe working culture created through the cooperation of employers and employees is the key to both a healthy and productive work life.

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