Manual Handling & Plant Safety

What is the best approach to manual handling safety?

• ATrain workers to lift correctly and accept injuries as part of the job
• BAvoid the need to handle manually through mechanical systems when possible✓
• CUse PPE to protect against lifting injuries
• DNo approach is needed

Answer: The hierarchy prioritizes avoiding manual handling (mechanical aids), then designing tasks to minimize risk, then training. Engineering controls come before training.

What is the role of a banksman when mobile plant operates?

• ATo record equipment movement
• BTo direct the equipment operator and warn of hazards and personnel✓
• CTo operate the plant
• DNot required

Answer: Banksmen act as eyes for operators, using hand signals to direct movement, warn of obstacles, and ensure pedestrian safety in blind spots.

What precautions should be taken when reversing mobile plant on site?

• ANone - operators are trained to reverse
• BUse banksmen, fitted reversing alarms, and mirrors; restrict access to reversing areas✓
• CWork quickly
• DOnly at certain times

Answer: Reversing is high-risk. Requirements: audible reversing alarm, mirrors or cameras, fitted banksman, cordoned reversing area, and pedestrians kept clear.

What is a lifting plan required for?

• AAll loads regardless of weight
• BHeavy, large, or complex lifts that require special planning and equipment✓
• COnly loads over 100 kg
• DLifting plans are never needed

Answer: Lifting plans document the method, equipment, rigging, load weight, weather conditions, and competent personnel for complex or high-risk lifts.

What must be checked on lifting equipment before use?

• AColor only
• BSafe Working Load (SWL), condition, maintenance certificate, and secure attachment✓
• CJust the age of equipment
• DNothing specific

Answer: Pre-use checks: SWL marking is visible, equipment is not damaged, current maintenance/inspection certificate exists, and attachment points are secure.

What are the standard hand signals for directing plant operations?

• AAny gestures the operator understands
• BStandardized hand signals (raise arm to stop, wave up/down for movement, clear hand signals) used consistently✓
• CVerbal instructions are always better
• DNot required if workers are trained

Answer: Standard hand signals ensure consistent communication across sites and between different operators. Clear, visible signals reduce miscommunication accidents.

What is LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations)?

• AA type of lifting technique
• BRegulations requiring examination, maintenance, and training for all lifting equipment✓
• CA certification course
• DNot applicable on construction sites

Answer: LOLER requires inspection, testing, and certification of all lifting equipment by competent persons. Thorough examination must occur at specified intervals.

What must a supervisor ensure regarding operator competence for plant machinery?

• AAny worker can operate plant
• BOperators are trained, certificated, and demonstrate competence for the specific equipment✓
• COnly formal qualifications are necessary
• DNothing specific

Answer: Plant operators must have formal training/certification (CPCS or equivalent), demonstrate practical competence, and maintain current certification.

What hazards are associated with pedestrian proximity to mobile plant?

• AMinimal - workers are aware
• BBeing struck, run over, or trapped; visibility restrictions make collisions common✓
• COnly noise exposure
• DNo specific hazard

Answer: Pedestrian-plant interactions cause serious injuries. Hazards: blind spots, noise masking warnings, high speeds, and unstable terrain.

What is the purpose of a slinger/signaler certificate?

• AJust a training record
• BCertification that the person is competent to direct lifting operations and communicate with crane operators✓
• CA health and safety passport
• DNot required on construction sites

Answer: Slingers/signalers must be trained and certified to safely rig loads, attach slings, and use proper hand signals with crane operators.

What are control measures for manual handling in construction?

• ANo controls needed
• BAssess load/task, use mechanical aids, team lifting, proper technique, and rest breaks✓
• CWorkers should always lift manually
• DTechnique doesn't matter

Answer: Manual handling controls: assess risks (weight, size, shape), use mechanical aids when possible, two-person lifts for loads >20kg, training on technique, and frequent breaks.

What is LOLER and what does it require?

• ALOLER not applicable
• BLifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations; requires inspection, certification, and trained operators✓
• COptional compliance
• DOnly for very heavy loads

Answer: LOLER mandates: pre-use inspection, regular competent person examination (6-12 months), load plates visible, weekly test certificates, and trained operators only.