ABSTRACT
This chapter explains work processes and practices that may give rise to work-related upper limb disorders and appropriate control measures. It examines the hazards and control measures which should be considered when assessing risks from manual handling activities. The chapter explores the hazards and controls to reduce the risk in the use of lifting and moving equipment with specific reference to manually operated load moving equipment. It describes the hazards and the precautions and procedures to reduce the risk in the use of lifting and moving equipment with specific reference to powered load handling equipment. The common ill-health effects of ergonomic hazards are musculoskeletal disorders, work-related upper limb disorders including repetitive strain injury and deteriorating eyesight. Musculoskeletal problems are the most common cause of absence, followed by viral infections and stress-related illnesses. In the UK alone, 9.5 million working days were lost in one year due to musculoskeletal problems.
