Which equipment can assist in reducing manual handling risks?

Mechanical aids such as trolleys or forklifts are specifically designed to assist with lifting, moving, and transporting heavy and bulky items, significantly reducing the physical strain on workers. By using these tools, the risk of musculoskeletal injuries associated with manual handling tasks is greatly diminished. These aids allow for safer movement of goods, as they can handle weight that would be difficult or impossible for a person to lift manually.

In contrast, while heavy-duty gloves can provide protection to the hands, they do not fundamentally change the way lifting or carrying is performed, so they don’t directly mitigate the risks associated with manual handling. Large containers might help organize items or provide structure for storage, but they do not necessarily lessen the effort required to move or handle items in them. Sofas and chairs do not offer support for manual handling tasks, as they are stationary furniture and do not provide any assistance in transporting or lifting items.