What is the primary goal of manual handling guidelines?

The primary goal of manual handling guidelines is to prevent injury during manual handling activities. These guidelines provide recommendations on safe lifting techniques, proper body mechanics, and the use of mechanical aids when necessary, all aimed at reducing the risk of musculoskeletal disorders and other injuries associated with manual handling. By adhering to these guidelines, individuals can protect themselves and their coworkers during tasks that involve lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling loads.

While improving efficiency in tasks and enhancing team collaboration are beneficial outcomes that may arise from following safe manual handling practices, they are secondary to the fundamental objective of injury prevention. Eliminating all manual handling tasks is unrealistic and impractical in many workplaces, as some tasks inherently require manual handling. Therefore, the emphasis remains on minimizing risks and ensuring safety during these necessary activities.