Method statement for manual handling of materials
A manual-handling method statement should describe the load, frequency, route, destination and people involved rather than relying on a generic instruction to lift correctly. Strains, crush injuries, cuts, trapped fingers and falls while carrying awkward items are common. The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 require hazardous handling to be avoided where reasonably practicable, assessed when unavoidable, and reduced to the lowest reasonably practicable level. Record the mechanical aid selected, its capacity and how the load will be secured. Clear and inspect the route before lifting, break loads into smaller units where possible, and nominate one person to coordinate any team lift. Individual capability, pregnancy, existing injury and changes during the shift must also be considered.
- ✓5 steps from preparation to completion
- ✓Covers: 3 key hazards and their controls
- ✓Plant, PPE and competence listed
In short
A method statement sets out how a task will be carried out safely, step by step: preparation, set-up, the work itself and completion, with the plant, permits, competence and supervision needed. It puts the controls identified in the risk assessment into a safe system of work.
What it must include
- ✓Task description, location and duration
- ✓Step-by-step sequence of works
- ✓Plant, equipment and materials
- ✓Permits and isolations required
- ✓Competence, training and supervision
- ✓PPE and emergency arrangements
You stay the duty holder: review the document for your site before work starts. SitePaper is a drafting tool, not a consultancy.