scope:

Application

The procedure defines the method of how Manual Handling Risk Assessments are selected and verified from a national database including how they are produced from first principles as well as detailing the formal layout of the Manual Handling Risk Assessments. The procedure has been produced in order to regularise all Regional procedures into a National format thus ensuring continuity across the country. The risk assessments referred to in this procedure are assessment of the risks to the health and safety of individuals as they undertake Manual Handling Operations as required to fulfil their terms of employment. The reason for carrying out such risk assessments is to ensure that where employees are exposed to hazards that could damage their health during the course of their employment (wether physical, ergonomic, biological or chemical) the risks of them sustaining injury or becoming affected from the hazard are reduced 'so far as is reasonably practicable'.¹

This procedure should be implemented in line with the general advice and guidance contained with:

• The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 Approved Code of Practice

Purpose

The purpose of this procedure is to:

• Define the process for undertaking Manual Handling Risk Assessments in a consistent manner.

• Ensure compliance with the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992; and

• Ensure that control measures are put into place as identified by the Risk Assessment.

¹ Further guidance on the interpretation of 'so far as is reasonably practicable' can be found within NR/GN/RSC/00401-Managing Safety Risk