Introduction to the MAC Tool

This page explains how the MAC Tool was developed, how it works, and how to begin to use it.

The MAC was designed to help HSE and Local Authority (LA) inspectors assess manual handling risks in the workplace and secure compliance in line with HSE's Enforcement Management Model framework , Much of the data is based on a set of guidelines developed from published scientific literature.

A range of existing tools were reviewed and based on the findings it was concluded that a new manual handling tool should be developed. The tool needed to conform to the following criteria:

• It must be quick and easy to use
• It must link in with other published information on Manual Handling, particularly that published by HSE
• It should intuitively indicate good manual handling practice
• It must be able to identify high-risk manual handling tasks.

In order for the MAC to meet the above criteria, a number of developmental studies were performed before the publishing the MAC.

Much of the data is based on a set of guidelines developed from published scientific literature.

The MAC was released to HSE and LA inspectors in November 2002 and was officially published in May 2003.

How it works

The MAC uses a numerical score and a traffic light approach to indicate the level of risk.

The MAC considers manual handling as three types of distinct operation:

• Single Lifting operation
• Single Carrying operation
• Team Handling operation

These operations are divided into the different manual handling factors and presented as a flow chart. The flow chart leads you, step-by-step, through each factor of the manual handling operation, enabling you to evaluate and grade the degree of risk. Each operation is supported by an assessment guide or aide memoire. These discuss each factor of the flow chart giving helpful pointers to help you to score the task you are observing. To enable you to calculate the risk for the load and frequency of a lifting/carrying operation, a graph is supplied with the flowchart.

Using the MAC Tool to score the video case studies

The MAC was originally designed for inspectors. For this reason we believe that the best way to learn how to use the MAC tool is to practice applying it to the six video case studies we have included on the website.

You can view and print out the complete MAC tool leaflet . A paper copy of the MAC leaflet is also available from HSE books.

It is advisable to read the assessment guide for each manual handling operation, before using the MAC tool to score the video case study. This way you can become familiar with the correct assessment procedure. We also recommend that you view the entire task before commencing your assessment. This will allow you to get a ‘feel' for the whole task.

When you are assessing each risk factor always consider the ‘worst case scenario'. An example of this would be assessing an operative lifting from a pallet which is placed on the floor surface. At the time you do the assessment the pallet may be half full and the operative may be lifting from waist height. Remember at some point the operative will be lifting from floor level and therefore are at greater risk.

To view and try the case studies please select from the following:

• Assessing Lifting Operations.
• Assessing Carrying Operations.
• Assessing Team handling Operation.