Manual handling training requirements for a licensed premises
Manual handling training is essential in licensed premises to ensure the safety and well-being of employees who may be required to lift, carry, push, or pull heavy items as part of their job. This type of training helps prevent injuries, especially to the back, neck, and shoulders, and is particularly relevant in bars, restaurants, and other hospitality venues where staff frequently handle kegs, boxes, furniture, and other heavy or awkward items. Here’s an overview of the manual handling training that should take place in licensed premises in England and Wales:
1. Understanding Manual Handling Risks
Identify Hazards: Staff should learn to identify manual handling tasks that may pose a risk, such as moving heavy kegs, lifting crates of bottles, handling stock, and rearranging furniture.
Assess Each Task: Training should emphasize assessing each manual handling task before starting, considering the weight, shape, and stability of the load, as well as the distance it needs to be moved.
2. Proper Lifting Techniques
Safe Lifting: Staff should be trained on safe lifting techniques to protect their back and prevent musculoskeletal injuries. Key points include:
Plan the Lift: Encourage employees to assess the load, path, and destination before starting.
Bend Knees, Not the Back: Teach employees to keep their back straight, bend at the knees, and use their leg muscles to lift.
Hold Close to the Body: Keep the load close to the body to reduce strain.
Avoid Twisting: Employees should be taught to move their feet to turn rather than twisting their torso.
Team Lifting: For heavy or awkward loads, staff should know when to seek help and how to coordinate a lift with another person.
3. Pushing and Pulling Techniques
Push, Don’t Pull: When moving trolleys or large objects, it's generally safer to push rather than pull to reduce strain on the back.
Use Correct Stance: Employees should use their body weight, lean forward slightly, and keep their feet steady when pushing.
4. Use of Handling Aids and Equipment
Trolleys and Carts: Staff should be trained on using trolleys or carts to move heavy items, such as cases of alcohol, kegs, or boxes of supplies, rather than carrying them.
Keg Lifters and Dollies: If the premises has keg lifters, dollies, or other equipment, staff should be trained on proper usage to reduce the need for manual lifting.
Ladder Safety: If shelves are high, training on ladder safety is essential for reaching or storing items safely.
5. Risk Assessments and Safe Systems of Work
Conducting Risk Assessments: Staff should understand how to perform a quick risk assessment of any manual handling task, considering factors like weight, height, and environment (e.g., wet floors or narrow spaces).
Following Safe Work Procedures: Training should include the importance of following established safe work procedures, such as limiting the weight of loads and ensuring clear pathways.
6. Recognizing Limits and Knowing When to Seek Help
Personal Limits: Encourage staff to recognize their personal physical limits and know when to ask for assistance with heavy or awkward items.
Report Hazards: Staff should feel empowered to report any issues or potential hazards they encounter during manual handling tasks, like broken equipment or unstable loads.
7. Handling Specific Items Common in Licensed Premises
Moving Kegs: Kegs are particularly challenging due to their weight and awkward shape. Training should cover how to roll or use equipment to move kegs rather than lifting them.
Handling Glass and Bottles: Handling boxes of glass bottles can be heavy and tricky due to the potential for breakage. Staff should know how to lift these items carefully and what to do in case of a spill or breakage.
Furniture Movement: If tables, chairs, or larger pieces need to be moved (for events or rearrangements), staff should be trained to handle these items properly, especially when moving them around tight spaces or crowded areas.
8. Refresher Training and Regular Assessment
Refresher Courses: Manual handling training should be provided regularly to reinforce good practices and address any new risks that may arise.
On-the-Job Assessment: Managers or supervisors should periodically observe employees during manual handling tasks to ensure they’re using proper techniques and address any lapses in safety practices.
9. Compliance with Health and Safety Regulations
Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (MHOR): Ensure training is aligned with the MHOR, which requires employers to avoid hazardous manual handling tasks where possible, assess risks, and reduce risks through appropriate training and equipment.
Health and Safety at Work Act 1974: As part of your duty of care under this act, ensure that all manual handling practices meet health and safety standards and that you provide a safe working environment.
10. Documentation and Records
Training Records: Keep records of all manual handling training completed by staff, noting the dates, content covered, and participants. This documentation may be required during health and safety inspections.
Incident Logs: Record any incidents related to manual handling to identify patterns or areas that may require additional training.
By implementing comprehensive manual handling training, licensed premises can reduce the risk of injuries, maintain compliance with health and safety regulations, and create a safer working environment. Manual handling training requirements for a licensed premises will then be adhered to.
Contact Licensing Professionals today if you'd like resources for specific training modules or templates for risk assessments!
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