Part E — Welfare & Health
Manual handling and ergonomics
Workbook section 45
Owner
HSE Manager / Document Controller
Review / trigger
Annual review; update immediately if legal, authority, project, client, or scope requirements change.
Primary references
Plans TOC - Part E; Plan L145 Lifting Gear Register
Checkpoints
88
| # | Area | Checkpoint / Requirement | Evidence / Acceptance Criteria | Responsible | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Policy & Planning | Manual handling and ergonomics policy documented and communicated | Signed policy statement displayed at site office and available on request | HSE Manager | Annual |
| 2 | Policy & Planning | Site-specific manual handling risk assessment completed before works commence | Approved risk assessment on file referencing task-specific loads | HSE Officer | Before task start |
| 3 | Policy & Planning | Manual handling included in project HSE plan | HSE plan section reviewed and approved by client/consultant | HSE Manager | Project start |
| 4 | Policy & Planning | Mechanical lifting aids prioritized over manual handling in method statements | Method statement shows hierarchy of controls applied | Project Engineer | Per activity |
| 5 | Policy & Planning | Manual handling tasks identified during pre-task hazard analysis | TBT/JHA records showing manual handling hazards flagged | Site Supervisor | Daily |
| 6 | Policy & Planning | Budget allocated for mechanical aids and ergonomic equipment | Procurement records/purchase orders available | Procurement Manager | Project start |
| 7 | Policy & Planning | Subcontractors required to submit manual handling risk assessments | Subcontractor HSE submittals reviewed and approved | HSE Manager | Prior to mobilization |
| 8 | Policy & Planning | Ergonomic considerations included in permit-to-work system | PTW forms include manual handling checklist section | HSE Officer | Per permit |
| 9 | Risk Assessment | Load weight assessed and documented before lifting/carrying tasks | Load weight records or supplier data sheets available | Site Supervisor | Per task |
| 10 | Risk Assessment | Task, Individual, Load, Environment (TILE) assessment method applied | Completed TILE assessment forms on file | HSE Officer | Per task |
| 11 | Risk Assessment | Repetitive tasks assessed for cumulative strain risk | Ergonomic assessment report identifying repetitive motion hazards | HSE Officer | Quarterly |
| 12 | Risk Assessment | Awkward postures (bending, twisting, overreaching) identified and controlled | Risk assessment notes corrective actions for posture hazards | HSE Officer | Per task |
| 13 | Risk Assessment | Environmental factors (heat, uneven ground, poor lighting) considered in assessment | Assessment records show environmental factors evaluated | Site Supervisor | Per task |
| 14 | Risk Assessment | High-risk manual handling tasks reviewed with workforce input | Consultation records/meeting minutes with workers | HSE Officer | Per task |
| 15 | Risk Assessment | Reassessment triggered when task, load, or environment changes | Updated risk assessment documenting change trigger | HSE Officer | As needed |
| 16 | Risk Assessment | Vulnerable workers (new starters, pregnant workers, prior injury) flagged for restricted duties | Medical records/HR notes with restricted duty assignments | HSE Manager | Ongoing |
| 17 | Weight & Load Limits | Maximum manual lifting weight limit of 25kg for men and 15kg for women enforced | Weight limit signage posted and toolbox talk records | Site Supervisor | Ongoing |
| 18 | Weight & Load Limits | Two-person or team lifting required for loads exceeding single-person limits | Team lift procedure documented and observed on site | Site Supervisor | Per task |
| 19 | Weight & Load Limits | Loads clearly labeled with weight where feasible | Photographic evidence of weight labels on materials/equipment | Store Keeper | On delivery |
| 20 | Weight & Load Limits | Bulk materials broken into smaller manageable loads where possible | Site observation confirms reduced load sizing practice | Site Supervisor | Ongoing |
| 21 | Weight & Load Limits | National/international ergonomic weight limit guidance referenced in procedures | Procedure document cites recognized standard (e.g., ISO 11228) | HSE Manager | Annual review |
| 22 | Mechanical Aids | Trolleys, hand trucks, or dollies provided for transporting heavy materials | Equipment inventory list and site inspection confirms availability | Site Supervisor | Ongoing |
| 23 | Mechanical Aids | Forklifts and pallet jacks used for bulk material movement | Equipment logbook showing usage records | Plant Operator | Daily |
| 24 | Mechanical Aids | Cranes and hoists used for heavy or awkward loads instead of manual lifting | Lifting plan and crane logbook available | Lifting Supervisor | Per lift |
| 25 | Mechanical Aids | Conveyor systems or chutes used for repetitive material transfer where applicable | Site walkthrough confirms installed conveyance systems | Project Engineer | Ongoing |
| 26 | Mechanical Aids | Mechanical aids inspected and maintained in good working condition | Maintenance/inspection log for lifting aids | Plant Maintenance Team | Monthly |
| 27 | Mechanical Aids | Sufficient quantity of mechanical aids available for workforce demand | Equipment allocation records match crew size | Site Supervisor | Weekly |
| 28 | Mechanical Aids | Workers trained on correct use of mechanical handling equipment | Training attendance sheets and competency records | Training Coordinator | Before use |
| 29 | Training & Competency | All workers receive manual handling training upon induction | Induction training records with manual handling module | HSE Officer | Before site access |
| 30 | Training & Competency | Refresher manual handling training conducted periodically | Refresher training attendance records | Training Coordinator | Annual |
| 31 | Training & Competency | Supervisors trained to identify and correct unsafe manual handling practices | Supervisor training certificates on file | HSE Manager | Annual |
| 32 | Training & Competency | Training covers correct lifting technique (bend knees, straight back, close load) | Training material and practical demonstration records | Training Coordinator | Per session |
| 33 | Training & Competency | Toolbox talks include manual handling and ergonomics topics | TBT attendance sheets with manual handling topic logged | Site Supervisor | Weekly |
| 34 | Training & Competency | Training records maintained and available for audit | Central training database or file accessible to auditors | HSE Manager | Ongoing |
| 35 | Training & Competency | Non-English speaking workers receive training in understood language | Multilingual training materials/interpreter records | Training Coordinator | Before site access |
| 36 | Workstation Ergonomics | Workstations designed to minimize bending, reaching, and twisting | Ergonomic workstation layout drawings/photos | Project Engineer | Design stage |
| 37 | Workstation Ergonomics | Work surfaces set at appropriate height for tasks (e.g., rebar tying benches) | Site inspection confirms adjustable/appropriate height surfaces | Site Supervisor | Ongoing |
| 38 | Workstation Ergonomics | Adjustable equipment (chairs, benches) provided for office and site-based tasks | Equipment inventory/purchase records | Admin/HSE Officer | Ongoing |
| 39 | Workstation Ergonomics | Adequate lighting provided at manual handling task locations | Lux level readings recorded | HSE Officer | Monthly |
| 40 | Workstation Ergonomics | Sufficient space provided around workstations to avoid awkward postures | Site layout inspection records | Site Supervisor | Ongoing |
| 41 | Workstation Ergonomics | Vibration-generating tools assessed and exposure limits monitored | Vibration exposure assessment records | HSE Officer | Quarterly |
| 42 | Site Housekeeping & Access | Walkways and material handling routes kept clear of obstructions | Daily housekeeping inspection checklist | Site Supervisor | Daily |
| 43 | Site Housekeeping & Access | Uneven or unstable ground leveled or covered before manual handling activities | Ground condition inspection records | Site Supervisor | Before task |
| 44 | Site Housekeeping & Access | Adequate storage areas provided to minimize double-handling of materials | Site layout plan showing designated storage zones | Project Engineer | Project start |
| 45 | Site Housekeeping & Access | Material laydown areas located close to point of use to reduce carry distance | Site layout audit confirms proximity of laydown areas | Project Engineer | Project start |
| 46 | Site Housekeeping & Access | Ramps and platforms provided to avoid manual lifting up/down levels | Site inspection confirms ramps/platforms in place | Site Supervisor | Ongoing |
| 47 | Site Housekeeping & Access | Adequate rest areas provided close to manual handling work zones | Site facility map showing rest area locations | HSE Manager | Project start |
| 48 | Rest & Rotation | Job rotation implemented for repetitive manual handling tasks | Rotation schedule/roster records | Site Supervisor | Weekly |
| 49 | Rest & Rotation | Adequate rest breaks scheduled during heavy manual handling activities | Break schedule and attendance records | Site Supervisor | Daily |
| 50 | Rest & Rotation | Heat stress management measures integrated with manual handling scheduling in summer months | Midday break compliance records and heat stress plan | HSE Manager | June-September |
| 51 | Rest & Rotation | Task duration limits set for continuous repetitive lifting tasks | Work schedule showing time limits and rotation intervals | Site Supervisor | Per task |
| 52 | Rest & Rotation | Fatigue management program addresses manual handling workload | Fatigue management policy and monitoring records | HSE Manager | Ongoing |
| 53 | PPE & Support Equipment | Appropriate gloves provided for grip and hand protection during handling | PPE issue records and site observation | Store Keeper | Ongoing |
| 54 | PPE & Support Equipment | Safety footwear with reinforced toe caps provided for material handling tasks | PPE issue log and inspection records | Store Keeper | Ongoing |
| 55 | PPE & Support Equipment | Back support belts issued only with proper training on correct use | Training record and issue log for back support belts | HSE Officer | As required |
| 56 | PPE & Support Equipment | PPE inspected regularly and replaced when damaged | PPE inspection checklist and replacement log | Store Keeper | Monthly |
| 57 | PPE & Support Equipment | High-visibility clothing worn during manual handling near vehicle/plant movement | Site observation and PPE compliance record | Site Supervisor | Ongoing |
| 58 | Incident Management | Manual handling injuries and near misses reported and investigated | Incident report forms and investigation records | HSE Manager | Per incident |
| 59 | Incident Management | Root cause analysis conducted for musculoskeletal injury incidents | RCA report with corrective actions identified | HSE Manager | Per incident |
| 60 | Incident Management | Corrective actions from manual handling incidents tracked to closure | Corrective action tracker/CAPA log | HSE Officer | Ongoing |
| 61 | Incident Management | Lessons learned from manual handling incidents shared across site/project | Lessons learned bulletin/toolbox talk records | HSE Manager | Per incident |
| 62 | Incident Management | First aid facilities accessible near manual handling work areas | First aid station location map and inspection log | HSE Officer | Ongoing |
| 63 | Incident Management | Musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) trends monitored through medical surveillance data | Occupational health surveillance reports | Occupational Health Nurse | Quarterly |
| 64 | Monitoring & Audit | Manual handling practices monitored through site inspections | Weekly site inspection checklist covering manual handling | HSE Officer | Weekly |
| 65 | Monitoring & Audit | Ergonomic audits conducted by qualified ergonomics specialist | Ergonomic audit report on file | HSE Manager | Semi-annual |
| 66 | Monitoring & Audit | Manual handling KPIs tracked and reported to management | KPI dashboard/monthly HSE report | HSE Manager | Monthly |
| 67 | Monitoring & Audit | Non-conformances related to manual handling tracked and closed out | Non-conformance register with closure evidence | HSE Officer | Ongoing |
| 68 | Monitoring & Audit | Internal audit program includes manual handling and ergonomics scope | Internal audit schedule and reports | HSE Manager | Annual |
| 69 | Monitoring & Audit | External audits/inspections by authorities addressed with corrective action plans | Authority inspection reports and CAP responses | HSE Manager | As required |
| 70 | Material-Specific Handling | Rebar handling procedures include use of mechanical aids and team lifting | Method statement for rebar handling on file | Project Engineer | Per activity |
| 71 | Material-Specific Handling | Blockwork and masonry handling minimizes repetitive bending via elevated work platforms | Site inspection confirms platform use for blockwork | Site Supervisor | Ongoing |
| 72 | Material-Specific Handling | Cement bags and heavy sacks handled using trolleys or two-person lifts | Site observation and toolbox talk record | Site Supervisor | Ongoing |
| 73 | Material-Specific Handling | Formwork panels handled with lifting aids or team lifting due to size/weight | Method statement and lifting plan for formwork | Project Engineer | Per activity |
| 74 | Material-Specific Handling | Pipes and ducting handled using pipe carriers or mechanical supports | Equipment inventory and site observation | Site Supervisor | Ongoing |
| 75 | Material-Specific Handling | Glass panels and glazing units handled with vacuum lifters or suction devices | Equipment inspection record for vacuum lifters | Site Supervisor | Per activity |
| 76 | Material-Specific Handling | Scaffolding components handled with team lifting and staged distribution | Scaffold erection method statement on file | Scaffold Supervisor | Per activity |
| 77 | Material-Specific Handling | Drum and container handling uses drum trolleys or hoists to avoid manual tilting | Equipment inventory and site observation | Store Keeper | Ongoing |
| 78 | Worker Engagement | Workers consulted on manual handling hazards and control measures | Consultation meeting minutes/worker feedback forms | HSE Officer | Quarterly |
| 79 | Worker Engagement | Suggestion scheme in place for ergonomic improvement ideas from workforce | Suggestion log and management response records | HSE Manager | Ongoing |
| 80 | Worker Engagement | Worker representatives participate in manual handling risk assessment reviews | Attendance records of worker representatives in reviews | HSE Manager | Per review |
| 81 | Worker Engagement | Feedback from workers on equipment adequacy collected and acted upon | Feedback survey results and action log | HSE Officer | Semi-annual |
| 82 | Legal & Regulatory Compliance | Manual handling practices comply with UAE Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 on labor relations | Compliance checklist referencing labor law provisions | HSE Manager | Annual review |
| 83 | Legal & Regulatory Compliance | Compliance with OSHAD/Dubai Municipality/local authority HSE codes of practice | Regulatory compliance audit report | HSE Manager | Annual |
| 84 | Legal & Regulatory Compliance | Ergonomic requirements from client/consultant HSE specifications incorporated | Contract HSE specification cross-check document | HSE Manager | Project start |
| 85 | Legal & Regulatory Compliance | Records maintained to demonstrate compliance during regulatory inspections | Document control register with compliance evidence | HSE Officer | Ongoing |
| 86 | Legal & Regulatory Compliance | Insurance and workers' compensation provisions cover manual handling related injuries | Insurance policy documentation on file | HR/Admin Manager | Annual review |
| 87 | Legal & Regulatory Compliance | Manual handling equipment procurement complies with UAE customs and safety certification requirements | Certificate of conformity/import compliance records | Procurement Manager | Per procurement |
| 88 | Legal & Regulatory Compliance | Emergency medical evacuation procedures address manual handling related musculoskeletal emergencies | Emergency response plan referencing MSD incidents | HSE Manager | Annual review |
Each checkpoint records Status (Yes / No / N/A), Comments, Corrective Action and Sign-off. Switch to Complete in-app to fill it here, or download the blank version to complete on site.
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