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Follow the links below to find material targeted to the unit's elements, performance criteria, required skills and knowledge

Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Elements define the essential outcomes
2. Identify manual tasks involving risk
   • Recognise manual tasks that may involve risk to self or others
   • Identify risk factors that make the manual task hazardous
   • Determine the nature and extent of the risk
   • Follow organisation procedures for controlling hazardous manual tasks
3. Prepare for manual tasks
   • Prepare workplace layout and environment according to organisation procedures
   • Organise task and workflow appropriately
   • Prepare and package loads for movement, taking account of specific requirements for different materials and organisation procedures
   • Select and use personal protective equipment appropriate to the task
   • Ensure task is within personal capabilities
4. Complete manual tasks
   • Use appropriate posture and handlingtechniques to reduce muscle load on exertion
   • Select, adjust and use mechanical aids and handling devices according to manufacturers instructions
   • Pace and schedule tasks according to procedures
5. Contribute to safe work practices
   • Identify hazardous manual tasks and report to supervisor according to organisation procedures
   • Follow organisation procedures for reporting symptoms of injury or actual injury to self and others
   • Participate in workplace safety activities and contribute to the improvement of manual tasks
   • Contribute to risk management approach to reduce risks from manual tasks

Performance Evidence

The candidate must show evidence of the ability to complete tasks outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit, manage tasks and manage contingencies in the context of the job role. There must be evidence that the candidate has:

followed legally compliant workplace procedures to prepare for and complete at least 3 different manual tasks relevant to the work role

contributed to a consultation process about improving manual handling safety

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Knowledge Evidence

The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively complete tasks outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit, manage tasks and manage contingencies in the context of the work role. This includes knowledge of:

key information from work health and safety (WHS) regulations relating to manual tasks and national code of practice

role and responsibilities of the employer and employees in relation to manual handling safety

ways in which individual workers are involved in consultation about workplace health and safety

reporting mechanisms required for workplace injury and compensation claims

key aspects of the risk management approach to manual tasks

risk factors and potential sources of risks of hazardous manual tasks:

repetition

forces

postures

vibration

systems of work

types of manual task activity and the types of injuries that can result

the relationship between the human body and risk of injury from performing manual tasks

functions of the human body:

basic function of the spine

body postures

types of muscles

principles of levers

manual handling techniques that support safe work practice:

preparing the load/client

preparing the environment

using the stronger muscles in the legs where possible, rather than spinal muscles

maintaining a neutral spine when lifting and carrying

using two hands to lift or carry

keeping the load close to the body/centre of gravity

avoiding lifting objects above shoulder height

minimising repetitive movements

positions not held for long periods of time

avoiding twisting by repositioning feet whilst turning

types and operational features of mechanical aids, tools and equipment

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