Health & Safety > Manual Handling Procedure
Authorised by Chief Executive Officer
Issue Date 12 November 2021
Objective of the Procedure
To minimise lifting and to promote safe work practices for workers at all Kyeema sites.
This procedure relates to NDIS Standard 2: Governance/Risk Management; Standard 4: Provision of Supports Environment.
The procedure has central, crucial themes:
•the promotion of a work culture that recognises the importance of identifying & reducing any lifting that could cause injury
•the proper training in manual handling and the use of specialised lifting equipment
•risk meeting of individuals’ homes to access ways to comply with manual handling procedure.
These themes are consistent with the overall Occupational Health & Safety framework that promotes:
•a commitment to the provision of optimum safety protection for all staff, volunteers and participants
•instructions, training and supervision to facilitate working in a manner that is safe and without risk to health
•the encouragement and promotion amongst staff teams and individuals to develop good practices through identifying & reporting lifting hazards and the development of appropriate hazard controls
•the equal obligation of Kyeema staff to take all reasonable measures available to protect their own health and safety, as well as that of anyone else who may be affected by their acts in the workplace
Scope
All workers involved at any Kyeema worksite and community setting.
Definitions
Manual handling: any activity requiring the use of force by a person to lift, lower, push, pull, hold or restrain something. Manual handling may include twisting, bending (forward or sideways), over reaching.
Procedure
Every human body is different in its size and capacity, so one size does not fit all. For this reason, Kyeema has set a no lift policy when supporting participants.
If there is a reason to engage in manual handling, it must be within the boundaries of Kyeema’s regular training, in compliance with current OHS Act, Regulations, and Code of Practice.
A person may be assisted to lift themselves if safe to do so, this can be completed with the use of a chair, walking frame etc, allowing the person to stand/move independently.
In all other areas the use of wheelchairs, wheelbarrows, hoists (lifting aids), slip sheets, ramps etc. will be utilised.
A minimum 2-person lift is the last resort to assist participants to move themselves.
Risk assessments need to done for each participant by a relevant qualified therapist.
Responsibilities
Any identified manual handling hazards need to be relayed back to the area Manager or Team Leader and OHS representative.
Training
Annual staff training includes manual handling training.
Area Management & Team Leaders will be responsible for provision of individualised training related to the area and / or the persons required. This could include outsourcing training via Occupational Therapist etc.
Record keeping
All providers must keep an up-to-date record of all workers who receive training in manual handling.