Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00406:body:0:p27
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00406
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 79974–82729

regular need for team handling. Team lifting can increase the risk of MSD if:
    * the load is not shared equally
    * workers do not exert force simultaneously
    * individual workers need to make foot or hand adjustments to accommodate other team members, reducing the force each can exert
    * performed on steps or on a slope where most of the weight will be borne by handlers at the lower end
    * individual workers unexpectedly lose their grip, increasing or changing the balance of the load on other team members.
Whenever team handling is used it is essential to match workers, co-ordinate and carefully plan the lift. You should ensure that:
    * the number of workers in the team is in proportion to the weight of the load and the difficulty of the lift
    * one person is appointed to plan and take charge of the operation
    * enough space is available for the handlers to manoeuvre as a group
    * team members are of similar height and capability, where possible
    * team members know their responsibilities during the lift
    * training in team lifting has been provided and the lift rehearsed, including what to do in case of an emergency
    * aids to assist with handling (a stretcher, slings, straps, lifting bars, lifting tongs, trolleys, hoists) are used where possible and training is provided in their use.

Information, training and instruction
If a risk of MSDs remains after implementing higher level control measures, then the risk must be minimised by providing information, training and instruction. Training in lifting techniques must not be used as the sole or primary means to control the risk of MSDs.

4.10     Implementing control measures
Risk control may initially involve using short term, interim measures while a long term solution is developed. For example, temporarily raise the bench until it can be replaced or altered permanently, or rotate employees through a production line to reduce the time spent working at a low bench until it can be changed.
To implement the most effective risk controls, you should:
    * allow workers to trial solutions before decisions are made to make the solution permanent
    * review controls after an initial testing period, as they may need modification
    * develop work procedures to ensure that controls are understood and responsibilities are clear
    * communicate the reasons for the change to workers and others
    * provide training to ensure workers can implement the risk controls for the task competently
    * ensure that any equipment used in the manual task is properly maintained.
You should not make final decisions on the effectiveness of the control measures that you have implemented until enough time has passed for your workers to adjust