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J. Safe Material Handling Techniques <br />Strains, sprains, fractures, and crushing injuries can be eliminated or at least minimized with the <br />knowledge of safe lifting and handling procedures when used in conjunction with good body mechanics. <br />Manual -handling operations are physical -work activities meeting the following criteria: <br />■ They involve lifting/lowering, pushing/pulling, and/or carrying. <br />■ They involve the exertion of considerable force because the particular load is heavy OR the <br />cu m u lative tota I of the load during workday is heavy (i.e., substantial loads). <br />Manually moving materials —The following guidelines must be followed when manually moving <br />materials: <br />■ Inspect materials for slivers, splinters and/or rough/sharp edges. <br />■ Know your own capacity for lifting (no more than 50 Ibs� unassisted per company policy). <br />■ Clear the pathway of obstacles. <br />■ Keep hands free of oil and grease. <br />■ Grip objects firmly before moving and keep fingers out of pinch points. <br />■ Use gloves and forearm protection when handling sharp -edged materials. <br />■ Get assistance before attempting to move large and/or heavy loads. <br />■ The height, balance, and stability of the load and/or pile must be evaluated and made safe prior <br />to moving. <br />■ Use wood blocks under raised loads that require manual placement to avoid hand/finger pinch <br />points. <br />■ Support loads safely using suitable blocking material or timbers. Avoid using material that has <br />evidence of cracks, rounded corners, splintered pieces, or dry rot. <br />■ Modify materials by attaching handles and/or holders to loads when possible to reduce pinching <br />or crushing fingers. <br />■ ALWAYS wear appropriate PPE to eliminate or reduce injury. <br />