Most injuries in the woodworking and furniture industry are caused during manual handling activities. There is potential for injury present during:
Lifting and handling aids can significantly reduce the risk of injury.
The HSE has produced examples showing good lifting techniques and the use of different lifting aids for use with sheet material:
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HSE has developed the manual handling assessment chart (MAC) to help employers assess manual handling operations. Employers need to identify high-risk operations before deciding on the most appropriate control solutions.
Information sheets
Approved Code of Practice and Guidance (ACOP)
DVD: Health and safety in the woodworking industry
BS EN’s for woodworking machines