What is preferred: pushing or pulling in manual handling?

Pushing is preferred in manual handling because it allows individuals to utilize their body weight more effectively. When pushing, the body can leverage its natural weight, which helps to generate more force with less effort. This method typically promotes better posture and reduces the risk of injury, as it encourages the worker to maintain a more neutral spine position and engage larger muscle groups.

Additionally, pushing can often create a more stable and controlled movement, minimizing the risk of losing balance or control of the load. While pulling might be perceived as requiring less energy in some scenarios, it can actually lead to awkward body positioning that may increase strain on the lower back and other muscles. Therefore, in terms of safety, efficiency, and effectiveness, pushing is generally the recommended approach in manual handling tasks.