Moving and Handling Flashcards
Q: What is essential to ensure safe moving and handling?
A: A risk assessment, a planned approach, and the use of suitable assistive devices.
Q: Why is proper training in moving and handling critical?
A: To prevent injuries to both carers and individuals being moved and to comply with legal requirements.
Q: What legislation governs the health and safety of carers and individuals during moving and handling?
A:
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (amended 2016)
Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
Q: What does the acronym AARR stand for in risk management?
A: Avoid, Assess, Reduce, Review.
Q: What is person-centered legislation, and how does it apply to moving and handling?
A: Laws like the Human Rights Act 1998 and the Mental Capacity Act 2005 ensure respect for individual rights and involve them in decisions about their care.
Q: What are some infection control measures for moving and handling?
A:
Follow WHO’s Five Moments for Hand Hygiene.
Clean and decontaminate equipment according to manufacturer guidelines.
Q: What are the guiding principles for the preparation phase of moving and handling?
A:
Obtain consent and ensure sufficient space.
Check equipment, wear appropriate PPE, and assign a team leader if needed.
Q: How should carers act during the action phase of moving and handling?
A:
Use equipment as instructed.
Maintain a stable base, avoid stooping or twisting, and keep the load close to the body.
Communicate effectively throughout the activity.
Q: What should be done during the completion phase of moving and handling?
A:
Ensure the person is left in a safe position.
Report incidents or concerns and decontaminate equipment properly.
Q: What are examples of assistive devices used in moving and handling?
A: Hoists, slings, slide sheets, and walking frames.
Q: What is a dynamic risk assessment in moving and handling?
A: A tailored, on-the-spot evaluation to address immediate risks before beginning an activity.
Q: Why is privacy and dignity important in moving and handling?
A: To respect the person’s rights, maintain their comfort, and ensure minimal exposure during the activity.
Q: What is the role of professional standards in moving and handling?
A: To ensure carers achieve competence through proper training and adhere to ethical and professional codes.
Q: What should be avoided to reduce injury risk in manual handling?
A: Hazardous practices like stooping, twisting, or over-reaching without proper support or equipment.
Q: What are some examples of hazardous practices in moving and handling?
A: Single-handed lifting of heavy individuals, improper use of equipment, or moving individuals without a risk assessment.
Q: What additional considerations are there for assisting specific populations, such as children or plus-size individuals?
A: Adjust equipment and techniques according to the individual’s size, shape, and needs, and ensure sufficient carers are present for safety.
Q: Why is thorough documentation important in moving and handling?
A: To provide accountability, support risk management, and ensure continuity of care by recording concerns, incidents, and outcomes.
Q: What are the key principles for preventing injuries during moving and handling?
A:
Use strong leg muscles with “soft knees.”
Keep the load close to the abdomen.
Maintain a stable base.
Avoid overstretching, stooping, and reaching.
Use equipment whenever possible.
Work within your individual capability.
Q: What is the ergonomic approach to safe handling, and how is it structured?
A: The ergonomic approach considers the following elements:
Task
Individual
Load
Environment
Other factors (e.g., PPE, work organization).
This can be remembered with the acronym TILEO.
Q: Why is dynamic risk assessment important during moving and handling?
A: Because risk factors can change over time, requiring continuous evaluation throughout the manoeuvre to ensure safety.
Q: What should carers do if they are unhappy with the situation during a moving and handling task?
A: STOP, ask for help, and consult the manager or person in charge before proceeding. Update the risk assessment and handling plan as needed.
Q: What tasks are covered in this section of safe handling principles?
A:
Lifting and lowering.
Pushing and pulling.
Team handling.
Q: What steps should carers follow before and during moving and handling tasks?
A:
Ensure all carers are trained and competent.
Check the moving and handling plan.
Inspect equipment for safety.
Obtain the person’s consent.
Perform hand hygiene.
Use PPE if required.
Communicate clearly with the person being moved.
Maintain the person’s privacy and dignity.
Agree on commands with assisting carers (e.g., “Ready, steady, move”).
Leave the person safe and comfortable after the task.
Clean and store equipment properly afterward.
Q: What does each element of TILEO represent in risk assessment?
A:
Task: The specific activity being performed (e.g., lifting or pushing).
Individual: The abilities and limitations of the carer(s).
Load: The characteristics of the object or person being moved.
Environment: The space, lighting, and potential obstacles.
Other factors: Includes personal protective equipment (PPE) and work organization.
Q: Why is collaboration and communication vital in team handling?
A:
Clear communication ensures synchronization, reduces risk of injury, and maintains safety for both carers and the person being moved.
Q: What are key principles for maintaining back health?
A:
Regular exercise to keep the body toned.
Good posture during daily activities.
Planning tasks to avoid strain and reduce risks.
Using appropriate equipment to aid movement.
Q: How can you assess, plan, and prepare for tasks involving heavy or awkward loads?
A:
Plan the task and assess the load.
Prepare the area and clear obstacles.
Get help for heavy or awkward tasks.
Use handling aids when possible.
Q: What are key tips for carrying and holding loads?
A:
Take a firm grip with both hands.
Keep the load close to your waist.
Use strong leg muscles to move.
Transfer weight in the direction of movement.
Q: How can prolonged activities be made safer?
A:
Begin with a good posture close to the task.
Keep essential items within easy reach.
Move regularly to minimize strain.
Take planned rest breaks during longer tasks.
Q: What precautions should be taken with wheeled equipment?
A:
Ensure equipment is in good working order.
Check that the route is clear.
Take care on slopes, when moving backward, or in tight spaces.
Q: What ergonomic practices are recommended for computer work?
A:
Adjust the seat to support your back and thighs.
Position the screen at arm’s length.
Keep wrists straight and forearms parallel to the floor.
Stand and stretch every 20–30 minutes.
Q: What adjustments are helpful for tasks at low levels?
A:
Get close to the load and take a firm grip.
Avoid twisting your spine.
Use a kneeling pad or low stool to reduce strain.
Avoid prolonged crouching or kneeling.
Q: How should equipment height be adjusted for standing tasks?
A:
Adjust equipment to between wrist and elbow height whenever possible to maintain good spinal posture.
Q: What are the benefits of regular exercise for back health?
A:
Strengthens the spine.
Reduces the risk of back pain.
Promotes overall fitness through activities like swimming, cycling, pilates, or brisk walking.
Q: How can posture be improved during standing and relaxing?
A:
Stand tall, keep shoulder blades back and down, and pull in the tummy.
Maintain natural spinal curves while relaxing.
Use a cushion in the small of the back if needed.
Ensure feet rest on the floor or use a footstool.
Q: How does mattress and pillow quality affect spinal health?
A:
The spine should remain straight when lying on your side.
A soft bed or poor pillow support can cause incorrect spine curvature.
Q: How can workstation ergonomics improve safety during prolonged tasks?
A:
Use equipment that allows both sitting and standing.
Change activity every 30 minutes.
Stretch regularly to reduce strain.
Q: Why is dynamic risk management important in back care?
A:
Risk factors can change during a task, requiring continuous assessment to maintain safety.
Adjust actions and seek help if conditions change unexpectedly.
Q: How can natural recovery for the back be supported during sleep and relaxation?
A:
Use a supportive mattress and pillow to maintain correct spinal alignment.
Keep feet on the floor or use a footstool while sitting.
Avoid poor posture, even when relaxing.
Q: What is the primary function of the spine?
A: To provide strength and flexibility for movement while protecting the spinal cord and supporting the upper body.
Q: What are the natural curves of the spine, and why are they important?
A:
Cervical (Lordosis) – Neck curve.
Thoracic (Kyphosis) – Upper back curve.
Lumbar (Lordosis) – Lower back curve.
These curves enhance strength and flexibility while absorbing shocks.
Q: What are common causes of back pain and injuries?
A:
Poor posture (stooping, slouching, twisting).
Overuse and repetitive movements.
Poor lifting techniques.
Lack of exercise and being overweight.
Mental well-being and genetic factors.
Q: Why is the lumbar spine more prone to injury?
A: It bears the entire weight of the upper body and is involved in lifting, twisting, and bending movements.
Q: What injuries can occur due to improper handling and lifting?
A:
Muscle, tendon, and ligament strains or tears.
Joint injuries.
Hernias, prolapses, and haemorrhoids.
Disc bulges pressing on nerve roots, causing pain, numbness, or weakness.
Q: How does the spine move to allow handling tasks?
A: Through flexion, extension, rotation, and side flexion, supported by muscles, ligaments, joints, and discs.
Q: Why is twisting and stooping while lifting dangerous?
A: It significantly increases the load on the spine and discs, raising the risk of injury.
Q: How do intervertebral discs protect the spine?
A: They act as cushions between vertebrae to absorb shocks and support movement.
Q: What are the risks of sudden or unexpected movements?
A: They can cause muscle strain or disc injuries due to abrupt, uneven loading of the spine.
Q: What steps should be taken after a work-related back injury?
A:
Complete an accident or incident form.
Reflect on the cause to prevent recurrence.
Report absences over seven days to the Health and Safety Executive (RIDDOR 2013).
Q: How can prolonged sitting contribute to back pain?
A: Poor posture while sitting strains the back and neck. Adjust the chair for support and take regular breaks.
Q: What is the role of spinal ligaments and facet joints?
A: Ligaments stabilize the spine, while facet joints enable movement and absorb stress.
Q: How can you protect your back while relaxing?
A: Maintain the spine’s natural curves, use a cushion in the lower back, and move around regularly.
Q: What are signs of serious spinal injuries requiring medical attention?
A: Persistent or worsening pain, numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness in the back, legs, or arms.
Q: Why should loads be kept close to the body during lifting?
A: To minimize strain on the spine and engage stronger leg muscles for support.
Q: What is the spine’s strongest and weakest position when lifting?
A: The spine is strongest when loaded from above in a neutral position and weakest when twisted or rotated.
Q: How do deep and superficial spinal muscles protect the spine?
A: They support and control spinal movement and work with trunk muscles to stabilize the spine during activities.
Q: What is the role of the spinal cord and nerve roots?
A: The spinal cord carries vital information between the brain and the body through nerve roots emerging from the vertebrae.
Q: What is the importance of regular risk assessment for back health at work?
A: It helps identify and minimize risks associated with lifting, pushing, pulling, and repetitive tasks to prevent injuries.
Q: How do facet joints contribute to spinal health?
A: Facet joints at the back of each vertebra allow flexibility and prevent excessive movement, reducing injury risk.
Q: What are the dangers of prolonged or repetitive movements?
A: They can cause gradual strain and sprain injuries in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints over time.
Q: How should unexpected loads or movements be handled safely?
A: Always move smoothly and be prepared for sudden movements, keeping the load close and your spine neutral.
Q: How can carrying loads with one hand increase injury risk?
A: It creates side-flexed positions, placing uneven stress on the spine and increasing the risk of muscle strain and disc injury.
Q: What are the consequences of ignoring early signs of back pain?
A: Continuing risky activities can worsen injuries, potentially leading to chronic pain or more serious spinal conditions.
Q: What are the four key steps in risk assessment according to AARR?
A:
Avoid hazardous moving and handling where possible.
Assess risks associated with the task.
Reduce risks to the lowest practicable level.
Review the assessment regularly.
Q: What are key considerations when assessing the Task?
A:
Plan the entire move from start to finish.
Identify potential hazards.
Determine if the task requires extra training or assistance.
Q: What factors should be assessed about the Individual performing the task?
A:
Physical fitness and health conditions.
Proper posture (avoid stooping, twisting, reaching above shoulder height).
Appropriate clothing and footwear.
Discuss risk adjustments for pregnancy or pre-existing conditions.
Q: How should the Load be evaluated before moving it?
A:
Assess the shape, size, and stability.
Repack or secure unstable contents.
Use handling equipment or seek help for large or heavy loads.
Q: What environmental factors should be checked before handling a load?
A:
Clear obstacles and hazards.
Ensure good lighting and dry, non-slip floors.
Wear weather-appropriate clothing if moving items outdoors.
Q: What are proper lifting techniques for handling a load?
A:
Stand close to the load with a stable posture.
Bend hips and knees, not your back.
Hug the load close to your waist.
Use your legs to lift smoothly.
Q: How should loads be placed onto a surface safely?
A:
Move close to the surface and bend your knees.
Lower the load onto the edge first.
Slide it into position using body weight.
Q: What is the correct way to change direction while carrying a load?
A:
Keep the load close to your waist.
Avoid twisting; turn by moving your feet.
Maintain a neutral spine.
Q: What should carers always do before starting a manual handling task?
A:
Follow the risk assessment and moving/handling plan.
Check and inspect equipment.
Use PPE when required.
Agree on commands with assisting carers (e.g., “Ready, steady, move”).
Q: How does frequent lifting affect load weight limits?
A:
Prolonged or frequent lifting increases fatigue, requiring lighter load limits to reduce injury risk.
Q: Why is communication important during team handling tasks?
A:
Ensures all team members understand the plan.
Reduces the risk of uncoordinated movements.
Standard commands like “Ready, steady, move” synchronize actions.
Q: When should handling aids (e.g., trolleys, sack trucks) be used?
A:
For moving heavy, awkward, or large loads.
Over long distances or through doors.
When it reduces strain on the spine and muscles.
Q: What is the safest way to handle loads without handles?
A:
Tip the load to grip the bottom corner or edge.
Hug the load close to your waist.
Maintain a stable posture and lift using leg muscles.
Q: What must be included in a risk assessment before moving a person?
A:
Person’s mobility level and physical abilities.
Number and competency of carers required.
Use and condition of equipment.
Environmental hazards and space for movement.
Communication and psychological factors.
Q: What role does communication play in moving a person safely?
A:
Clearly explain the procedure to the person.
Use agreed commands with assisting carers (e.g., “Ready, steady, move”).
Adjust instructions based on the person’s understanding and behavior.
Q: How are carers categorized by risk level when moving a person?
A:
Low Risk: Person moves independently with verbal prompting.
Low to Medium Risk: Person requires assistance and equipment (e.g., handling belt).
Medium to High Risk: Person requires maximum assistance and equipment (e.g., hoists, slide sheets).
Q: What details must be included in a handling or care plan?
A:
Methods for moving the person.
Special instructions and required equipment.
Regular review dates, especially if the person’s condition changes.
Q: Why is continuous reassessment important during a move?
A:
The person’s physical ability and cooperation can change.
Ongoing reassessment helps prevent injury to both the person and the carers.
Q: Why are pre-use equipment safety checks important in moving a person?
A:
To ensure equipment is in good working condition.
To comply with PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998) and LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998).
To prevent accidents caused by faulty or inappropriate equipment.
Q: How should carers handle psychological and behavioral factors during a move?
A:
Assess the person’s mental state and behavior.
Adapt the handling method to manage anxiety, confusion, or aggression.
Develop a separate action plan for behavioral challenges if necessary.
Q: When should Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) be used during person handling?
A:
When there is a risk of contact with bodily fluids or infection.
When handling tasks involve friction or shearing forces on vulnerable skin.
According to the risk assessment and employer policies.
Q: Why is it important to document incidents and changes in a person’s condition?
A:
To update the risk assessment and handling plan.
To inform all carers about any new risks or procedures.
To prevent recurrence of incidents and improve safety measures.
Q: Why is pushing generally safer than pulling when moving loads?
A: Pushing allows you to see where you’re going, reduces the need to twist, and engages stronger leg muscles, lowering the risk of injury.
Q: What ergonomic principles should be followed when pushing or pulling a load?
A:
Keep hands at waist height.
Maintain good posture (avoid stooping or twisting).
Use leg muscles to transfer weight in the direction of movement.
Move smoothly and avoid sudden movements.
Q: How should the environment be prepared for pushing or pulling tasks?
A:
Clear obstacles and slip/trip hazards.
Ensure dry, even flooring.
Check for enough space to move without twisting.
Wear suitable footwear for stability.
Q: What is the correct technique for pushing a load?
A:
Use both hands with elbows slightly bent.
Keep arms close to the body.
Place one foot in front of the other and lean into the move.
Use leg muscles and avoid stooping or twisting.
Q: What is the correct technique for pulling a load?
A:
Grip the handle with both hands, keeping it between shoulder and wrist height.
Lean backward slightly and use leg muscles.
Avoid twisting; turn your feet to change direction.
Minimize pulling—switch to pushing when possible.
Q: What guidelines exist for safe pushing and pulling forces?
A:
Starting or stopping a load:
Men: 20 kg (200 Newtons)
Women: 15 kg (150 Newtons)
Keeping a load in motion:
Men: 10 kg (100 Newtons)
Women: 7 kg (70 Newtons)
Q: How should carers handle pushing or pulling on slopes?
A:
Uphill: Lean forward and use leg muscles.
Downhill: Lean backward, bend knees, and control the descent.
Consider pulling instead of pushing on steep inclines.
Q: How should narrow spaces and obstacles be managed during pushing and pulling?
A:
Plan the route to avoid hazards.
Use a doorstop or ask for help to hold doors.
Apply wheelchair brakes when stationary.
Use small forward and backward movements to adjust wheels in tight spaces.
Q: How should team handling be coordinated during pushing or pulling tasks?
A:
One person should act as the team leader.
Plan and coordinate the move.
Use clear commands (e.g., “Ready, steady, move”).
Ensure everyone is aware of each stage of the task.
Q: What safety checks are required for equipment used in pushing or pulling?
A:
Inspect equipment for faults (wheels, brakes).
Ensure load weight is within equipment limits.
Position handles between wrist and shoulder height.
Confirm the load is secure during the move.
Q: What precautions should be taken when pushing or pulling a person in equipment (e.g., wheelchairs)?
A:
Secure limbs and attachments (e.g., catheters).
Explain the procedure and gain consent.
Move at a steady pace, avoiding sudden stops or turns.
Ensure comfort and safety throughout the task.
Q: Why is proper posture critical when pushing or pulling?
A:
Reduces strain on the back and arms.
Prevents stooping, twisting, and reaching, which can cause injury.
Maintains balance and control during movement.
Q: How can heavy or awkward loads be managed more safely?
A:
Use mechanical aids (e.g., trolleys, hoists).
Get additional help when needed.
Adjust or rearrange the load for better balance and visibility.
Q: What steps should be taken after completing a pushing or pulling task?
A:
Leave the load or person in a safe, stable position.
Apply equipment brakes if applicable.
Clean and store equipment properly.
Report any hazards or incidents.
Q: How should pushing and pulling tasks be adjusted for adverse weather conditions?
A:
Wear weather-appropriate footwear with good grip.
Be cautious of ice, rain, or wind affecting stability.
Clear outdoor pathways of hazards when possible.
Slow down to maintain control on slippery or uneven surfaces.
Q: Why is adjusting equipment height and handle position important?
A:
Handles should be between wrist and shoulder height and about shoulder-width apart for better grip and posture.
Correct height reduces strain on the back and shoulders.
Proper handle placement improves control and maneuverability.
Q: How do frequent starting and stopping impact pushing and pulling tasks?
A:
Increases the effort required to move loads.
Raises the risk of sudden strain on muscles and joints.
Smooth, continuous movements are safer and more efficient.
Q: How can body weight be used effectively when pushing or pulling?
A:
Lean into the movement to let body weight assist in pushing.
For pulling, lean slightly backward while using leg muscles.
Shifting weight reduces reliance on arm and back muscles.
Q: Why is it important to secure loads during movement?
A:
Prevents unexpected shifting or falling of the load.
Maintains balance and control throughout the task.
For equipment, ensure items are fastened and stable.
Q: Why is communication important in team handling tasks?
A:
Prevents confusion and reduces injury risk.
Requires clear, agreed-upon commands (e.g., “Ready, Steady, Lift”).
Ensures all team members work together, not independently.
Q: How does load distribution differ in team handling?
A:
A two-person team should not move more than two-thirds of their combined solo capacity.
A three-person team should not move more than half of their combined solo capacity.
Q: What are the three main stages of a safe team lift?
A:
Lift – On the command “Ready, Steady, Lift”, lift using leg muscles without bending the back.
Carry – Move in small, coordinated steps on the command “Ready, Steady, Carry”.
Lower – Bend knees (not the back) to lower the load on the command “Ready, Steady, Lower”.
Q: How should complex team-handling tasks be managed?
A:
Assign a team leader to coordinate roles and commands.
Plan for pauses to check for safety (e.g., tube or line placement).
Ensure all team members understand their responsibilities.
Q: What steps should be taken after completing a team-handling task?
A:
Ensure the load or person is safe and comfortable.
Apply brakes to equipment if necessary.
Clean and store equipment properly.
Update the handling plan if needed.
Q: What safety checks should be performed before a team-handling task?
A:
Inspect equipment for damage or malfunction.
Remove obstacles and hazards.
Verify that all carers understand the handling plan.
Obtain the person’s consent before moving them.
Q: Why are planned pauses important during complex team-handling tasks?
A:
Allows the team leader to check safety (e.g., medical lines, tubes).
Provides an opportunity to correct positioning or posture.
Helps maintain coordination and prevent injury.
Q: How should awkward or heavy loads be handled in confined spaces?
A:
Slide the load forward instead of lifting it when possible.
Clear space around the load to reduce strain.
Use handling aids or get additional help if needed.
Q: How should environmental conditions be managed during team handling?
A:
Ensure adequate lighting for clear visibility.
Minimize background noise to support communication.
Remove obstacles and address space constraints for safe movement.
Q: What are the specific responsibilities of a team leader during handling tasks?
A:
Plan the task in stages (lift, carry, lower).
Coordinate the team and give clear commands.
Ensure the environment and equipment are safe and prepared.
Monitor the safety and comfort of the person being moved.
Q: How should carers communicate with the person being moved?
A:
Clearly explain the procedure and obtain informed consent.
Use simple, step-by-step instructions.
Ensure the person feels safe, comfortable, and involved in the move.
