Safety Reminder

Staying Safe with Manual Handling: End-of-Year OH&S Reminder

As we approach the end of the school year, many of us—students, staff, and even families at home—will find ourselves packing away classrooms, moving equipment, sorting resources, and reorganising spaces. While this is an exciting time of transition, it’s also a period when injuries from lifting and carrying are most common.  To support the wellbeing of our school community, we’d like to share some simple Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) guidance on safe manual handling. Following these steps helps protect everyone and ensures we finish the year strong and injury-free.

Why Manual Handling Safety Matters

Manual handling refers to any activity involving lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, or moving items. When done incorrectly, it can cause strains, sprains, back injuries, and accidents. Even small items moved repeatedly can lead to injury if we don’t pause and think about safe techniques.

Top Manual Handling Tips for Students, Staff & Families

1. Pause and Plan

Before moving anything, take a moment to:

• Check the path is clear.
• Assess the weight of the item.
• Decide if you need help or equipment (like a trolley).
• Identify the safest route.

A 10-second plan can prevent a 10-week injury.

2. Keep Loads Light

Only carry what you can comfortably manage.

• Break heavier loads into smaller trips.
• Empty drawers or shelves before moving furniture.
• Students: ask an adult if you're unsure whether something is too heavy.

3. Use Safe Lifting Techniques

When lifting:

• Stand close to the item with your feet shoulder-width apart.
• Bend at your knees—not your back.
• Engage your core and lift using your legs.
• Keep the load close to your body.
• Avoid twisting; turn with your feet instead.

4. Share the Load

There is no award for carrying a heavy item solo!

• Ask a friend or colleague to help.
• Communicate clearly: “Ready?”, “Up”, “Down”, “Turning left”, etc.
• Make sure everyone knows the plan before lifting.

5. Use Equipment When You Can

Trolleys, sliders, and dollies are designed for a reason.

• If your classroom, department, or office has equipment available, use it.
• It’s often safer and much faster than lifting manually.

6. Look After Your Space

At school and at home:

• Keep floors free of trip hazards.
• Coil cords and cables out of the way.
• Don’t stack boxes too high.
• Store heavier items at waist height when possible.

A Community Effort

By following these simple manual handling tips, we are helping create a safe and supportive environment for everyone. Whether you're moving textbooks, packing up a classroom, rearranging a workspace, or preparing your home for the holidays, being mindful helps prevent injuries and ensures we all enjoy a happy and healthy end to the year.

Thank you for taking care of yourselves and each other.

Michael Cacccamo, Lauren Ware & John Lilywhite

(OHS Committee Members)