Manual Handling Overhead
Manual handling objects at shoulder height or overhead is something that we all have to do from time to time. If you work in an environment where manual handling tasks are performed frequently at shoulder height or overhead, it is suggested that you conduct a workplace manual handling risk assessment to determine if there are better ways to design the work area. For workplaces that perform regular manual handling, it is suggested that commonly moved objects be stored or placed at a height around the waist level to avoid increasing the risk of developing musculoskeletal strains and sprains. In a perfect world we wouldn’t have to lift. However this is generally not practical for many workplaces.
Top Tips For Manual Handling At Shoulder Height and Overhead
- Avoid placing heavy or commonly manual handled objects at these heights.
- Be sure to check and know what it is lifting before doing so.
- Plan your lift before grasping the object.
- Try and use the whole body rather than just the upper limbs and shoulder.
- Try and avoid hinging through your lower back into extension when lifting.
- Conduct a risk assessment if this task is performed regular to come up with a solution to improve manual handling in the workplace.
This blog post was written by Osteopath Heath Williams, owner and director of Principle Four Osteopathy and Corporate Work Health Australia.
Principle Four Osteopathy is one of Melbourne City CBD leading Osteopathy clinics. At the clinic we treat a wide range of clients, ranging from the office worker, exercise enthusiast to athlete. We have 3 experienced osteopaths working across both of the clinics.
The Melbourne City CBD clinic is located at 29 Somerset Place (basement), close to the corner of Elizabeth St and Little Bourke in the Melbourne City CBD. Our premises adjoin the Jon Weller Personal Training Studio, a fully-equipped training space which allows clients to combine their osteopathy treatment with exercise tutorials or specific training programs and rehabilitation.
The Docklands clinic is located at 717 Bourke St (Ground Floor), beneath the Channel 9 building near the walkway from Southern Cross Train Station to Etihad Stadium. Our premises adjoin Pilates on Bourke, a fully-equipped pilates and yoga training space which allows clients to combine their osteopathy treatment with exercise tutorials, pilates or specific training programs and rehabilitation.
To speak to an Osteopath or book an appointment at Principle Four Osteopathy, please book online or call 03 9670 9290.