Lifting Standards in the Workplace – How to Ensure Safety and Ergonomics at Work?

Lifting Standards in the Workplace – How to Ensure Safety and Ergonomics at Work?

Workplace ergonomics is a key element of effective process organization in warehousing, manufacturing, and packaging industries. In particular, manual lifting standards significantly affect employee health and operational efficiency. Adhering to these regulations minimizes the risk of accidents and absenteeism while boosting productivity. Occupational health and safety regulations (OHS) clearly define permissible loads and require the implementation of appropriate technical and organizational measures. Let’s review these rules and explore proven methods for applying them in practice.

What Do Manual Lifting Regulations Define?

Manual lifting standards specify the maximum loads that a single employee may lift. Detailed guidelines can be found in the regulation of the Minister of Labour and Social Policy dated September 26, 1997, concerning general OHS provisions. These regulations obligate employers to:

• Automate processes to reduce the need for manual handling of heavy loads.
• Use transport systems, such as roller conveyors, pallet trucks, or other tools that facilitate the movement and transportation of heavy items.
• Consider the individual capabilities of employees, including factors such as gender, age, and the type of work performed.

Permissible Loads for Manual Lifting

Lifting standards depend on several factors, including gender, lifting frequency, and the distance and path of the transported goods. Below is an overview of the maximum weights:

When lifting items to shoulder height:

• Men: 30 kg for continuous work, 50 kg for occasional work.
• Women: 12 kg for continuous work, 20 kg for occasional work.

When lifting items above shoulder height:

• Men: 21 kg for continuous work, 35 kg for occasional work.
• Women: 8 kg for continuous work, 14 kg for occasional work.

When carrying items over a distance of more than 25 m:

• Men: Maximum 30 kg.
• Women: Maximum 12 kg.

When manually carrying items on stairs or sloped surfaces (slope over 30°, height over 4 m):

• Men: 20 kg for continuous work, 30 kg for occasional work.
• Women: 8 kg for continuous work, 12 kg for occasional work.

Lifting Standards for Young Employees and Pregnant Women

Additional restrictions apply to young employees (15–18 years old) and pregnant women:

Young Employees:

• Boys: Up to 12 kg for repetitive work, 20 kg occasionally.
• Girls: Up to 8 kg for repetitive work, 14 kg occasionally.

Pregnant Women:
All manual handling of loads should be minimized. Specific legal regulations govern the lifting of loads by pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Source: Regulation of the Minister of Labour and Social Policy dated March 14, 2000, concerning maximum permissible loads for employees during manual handling.

Transportation Using Pallet Trucks

Manual pallet trucks are a common tool for facilitating the transport of heavy loads in warehouses and logistics centers. However, their use is also subject to specific standards:

• Maximum Load: 450 kg per worker (including the weight of the truck) on a flat surface.
• Transport Paths: Must be smooth and free of obstacles.

Roller Tracks – Assistance in Transporting Loads

One of the most effective solutions for reducing physical strain on employees is roller tracks. They allow for the smooth movement of loads, significantly reducing effort and the costs of internal transport.

Key Benefits of Roller Tracks:

• Durability: Transport rollers made from high-quality materials can handle loads of several hundred kilograms, such as the transport roller type 755 with a load capacity of 100 kg per roller.
• Ergonomics: The design reduces the need for manual pushing of loads.
• Versatility: Ideal for warehouses, production lines, and loading zones.

In our online store, listwy-rolkowe.pl, you will find a wide range of roller tracks for pallets, tailored to various loads and applications, such as the pallet roller track type 720 with a load capacity of 150 kg per roller, designed for transporting pallets and heavy crates.

Workplace Ergonomics – Why Is It Important?

The lack of ergonomic solutions and non-compliance with lifting standards in workplaces can lead to:

• Injuries and musculoskeletal disorders among employees.
• Reduced employee productivity and downtime.
• Legal sanctions and fines imposed by control institutions, such as labour inspection authorities.

Proven Ways to Improve Working Conditions

• Process Automation: Gravity roller conveyors and universal roller tracks that facilitate efficient movement of loads.
• Ergonomic Workstations: Designing workspaces in line with ergonomic principles reduces the risk of injuries.
• Employee Training: Educating workers on safe lifting techniques and OHS training.
• Modern Equipment: Regular upgrades and maintenance of equipment.
• Health Monitoring: Preventing work-related disorders through periodic employee health checks.

Offer from listwy-rolkowe.pl

We provide high-quality roller tracks, SMART gravity roller conveyors, conveyor components, and other solutions that support workplace ergonomics and manual load handling. Our internal transport products are highly regarded in the warehousing and manufacturing industries, ensuring:

• Reduced risk of injuries.
• Increased efficiency and seamless processes.
• Comfort and safety for employees.
• Lower operational costs.

Don’t wait – explore our range and schedule a free consultation with our specialist, who will assist you at every stage of your project, from design and refurbishment to component selection and delivery. Call us at +48 500 111 221 and improve working conditions in your company today!