Movement

Safe manual handling depends on the complete movement, not just the position used at the start. A worker may begin a lift well but introduce risk by twisting during the transfer, changing grip while walking, jerking a trolley into motion, or losing control when placing the load.

Movement analysis breaks a task into stages so that unsafe actions can be identified and improved.

Analyse the Complete Movement

Observe the task from preparation through to completion. Each stage can create a different handling demand.

Movement Analysis by Task

Lifting

1. Plan the destination. Know where the load will be placed before lifting it. Ensure there is enough space to approach and set it down.
2. Position close to the load. Avoid beginning with the load beyond comfortable reach. Use a stable stance and a secure grip.
3. Initiate the lift smoothly. Use the hips and legs to produce force as appropriate for the task. Do not snatch or jerk the load.
4. Move the load and feet together. If the direction changes, take controlled steps rather than turning the torso while the feet remain planted.
5. Lower with control. Keep hands clear of pinch points and avoid dropping the load into position.

If a load is too heavy, bulky, unstable or difficult to grip, technique alone is not an adequate control. Use a mechanical aid, obtain suitable assistance or change the task.

Carrying

• Check the full route before picking up the load, including doors, steps, wet surfaces and congested areas.
• Keep the load close enough to maintain control without allowing sharp edges or hot surfaces to contact the body.
• Ensure the load does not block the view of the route. Use a trolley or divide the load when safe visibility cannot be maintained.
• Use controlled steps and allow enough room for turns. Avoid sudden direction changes.
• Stop in a safe position before adjusting a slipping grip. Do not attempt to reposition the load while continuing to walk.

Pushing

Pushing is often preferable to pulling when the equipment is designed for it and the route permits. It can allow better use of body weight and reduce the need to walk backwards.

• Inspect the wheels, brakes and designated handles before moving a trolley or cart.
• Stand close enough to the handle to apply force without excessive reaching.
• Start the equipment with steady pressure. A sudden push can cause loss of balance or make the load shift.
• Walk at a controlled pace and slow down before corners, doorways and stopping points.
• Keep both hands available for control when the equipment and task require it.
• Follow workplace procedures for slopes. A loaded trolley can rapidly gain speed and must not be controlled using body strength alone.

Pulling

Pull only when the equipment and work area make it appropriate.

• Use the designated handle and maintain a secure grip. Never wrap a strap or handle around the hand, wrist or body.
• Apply force gradually rather than yanking the equipment.
• Move so that the route remains visible. Avoid prolonged backward walking because obstacles may not be seen.
• Step in the direction of movement instead of pulling while turning the torso.
• Stop if a wheel catches or the required force increases unexpectedly. Check the equipment and route before trying again.

Practical Example

A warehouse worker lifts cartons from a low pallet, carries them several metres and loads them onto a trolley. The trolley is initially behind the worker, so each carton is lifted and turned through a large angle. Once loaded, the trolley is pulled sharply to start it moving.

A movement analysis identifies three improvements:

• Position the trolley beside and slightly ahead of the pallet so the worker can step towards it instead of turning with planted feet.
• Keep cartons below the worker’s line of sight and use a trolley when the carrying distance or load size affects visibility.
• Check the trolley wheels, then use the push handle and steady pressure to start it moving.

These changes shorten the transfer, simplify the direction change and reduce sudden movements.

Movement Errors That Need Correction

• Assessing only the initial lift and ignoring carrying, stopping or placement
• Changing direction by turning the torso while holding a load
• Carrying a load that blocks the route from view
• Jerking a trolley or stuck item to overcome resistance
• Walking backwards while pulling without checking the route
• Continuing when a load shifts, a wheel jams or the required force unexpectedly increases
• Trying to catch a falling load instead of stepping clear when possible

Key Takeaway

Effective movement analysis follows the task from preparation to completion. Check how the load starts moving, how it travels, how direction changes are made and how it is stopped or placed. Smooth force, clear routes, controlled foot movement and suitable equipment can make lifting, carrying, pushing and pulling safer and easier to manage.