1. Policy Statement

Oxford Medwell Academy is committed to providing a safe and healthy workplace for its employees, students, visitors, and contractors. We recognize that manual handling can be a potential hazard that may cause injuries to our staff or others. This policy sets out our approach to preventing manual handling injuries by implementing safe systems of work and providing adequate training to all relevant staff.

2. Legislation and Guidance

This policy is based on the UK’s Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992, and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.

3. Responsibilities

3.1. The Management of Oxford Medwell Academy will:

• Ensure that all employees receive appropriate training and information on manual handling procedures.
• Ensure that a risk assessment is carried out for all manual handling tasks.
• Provide adequate resources for the implementation of safe manual handling procedures.
• Ensure that the workplace is safe for employees and visitors.

3.2. Employees will:

• Follow the safe manual handling procedures taught to them.
• Report any manual handling injuries or incidents to their supervisor.
• Participate in manual handling training sessions.

3.3. Supervisors will:

• Ensure that all employees are trained in manual handling procedures.
• Ensure that manual handling tasks are assessed for risk and that control measures are implemented.
• Monitor compliance with manual handling procedures and address any issues.

4. Risk Assessment

All manual handling tasks will be assessed for risk. The assessment will consider the following factors:

• The weight, size, and shape of the load.
• The distance to be moved.
• The frequency and duration of the manual handling task.
• The working environment, including lighting, flooring, and space.
• The capability of the person carrying out the manual handling task.
• Any additional hazards or risks associated with the task.

The risk assessment will determine the level of risk and identify control measures to mitigate the risks. The risk assessment will be reviewed regularly, and any changes to the task, environment, or equipment will trigger a new assessment.

5. Safe Manual Handling Procedures

The following safe manual handling procedures will be implemented:

• Avoid manual handling tasks where possible.
• Assess the risks of manual handling tasks and implement control measures to reduce the risks.
• Use mechanical aids and equipment where appropriate.
• Provide adequate space and lighting for manual handling tasks.
• Ensure that the load is stable and secure before lifting or moving it.
• Use proper lifting techniques, including keeping the load close to the body and avoiding twisting or bending.
• Avoid carrying loads for long periods and take breaks when needed.
• Use team lifting where necessary.
• Ensure that the task is planned and organized to minimize the manual handling required.
• Provide training and information on manual handling procedures to all relevant employees.

6. Training

All employees who undertake manual handling tasks will receive appropriate training in safe manual handling procedures. The training will cover:

• The risks associated with manual handling tasks.
• The safe manual handling procedures to be followed.
• How to use mechanical aids and equipment.
• How to carry out a risk assessment.
• The importance of reporting manual handling injuries and incidents.

The training will be provided to new employees during their induction and will be provided to existing employees on a regular basis.

7. Review

This policy will be reviewed annually and revised as necessary to ensure that it remains effective and up to date. The policy will be communicated to all relevant employees and displayed in a prominent location in the workplace.

8. Conclusion

Oxford Medwell Academy is committed to preventing manual handling injuries by implementing safe manual handling procedures and providing adequate training to all relevant employees. The success of this policy relies on the cooperation of all staff, and we encourage everyone to follow the safe