What is this document?
INDG398 is the HSE's brief guide to making the best use of lifting and handling aids. Using appropriate equipment can remove or significantly reduce the risk of injury to employees from manual handling at work.
The guide provides practical advice on selecting lifting and handling aids that genuinely help workers rather than creating new problems. Choosing the right equipment for the task is essential for effective risk reduction.
Who needs to read this?
- Managers responsible for equipment purchasing decisions
- Employees involved in selecting or using handling aids
- Care providers choosing hoists and patient handling equipment
- Warehouse supervisors specifying trolleys and pallet trucks
- Procurement staff evaluating lifting equipment options
- Health and safety advisers recommending equipment solutions
Key points covered
The guide addresses practical aspects of equipment selection:
- Benefits of handling aids in reducing manual handling risks
- Matching equipment to tasks so aids genuinely help rather than hinder
- Types of lifting aids including hoists, trolleys, conveyors, and vacuum lifters
- Involving workers in equipment selection decisions
- Training requirements for effective and safe use
- Maintenance considerations to keep equipment working properly
How this applies to you
Start by identifying the manual handling tasks where aids could reduce risk. Consider the specific requirements of each task, including load characteristics, work environment, and how often the task is performed.
Involve the workers who will use the equipment in the selection process. They understand the practical demands of the task and will be more likely to use equipment they have helped choose.
Check that any equipment you select is suitable for your specific situation. A handling aid that works well in one setting may be impractical in another due to space constraints, load types, or work patterns.
Ensure workers receive proper training in using the equipment. Even well-designed aids can cause problems if used incorrectly. Include equipment in your maintenance schedules to keep it safe and effective.
For guidance on assessing manual handling tasks, see INDG383 covering the MAC tool. For pushing and pulling assessments, refer to INDG478. Broader information on manual handling is available in our manual handling topic guide.