How to avoid manual handling accidents with vans

Warehouses where items are loaded into vans can pose a risk of injury to workers.

The Unison union says that one in three work accidents are due to manual handling errors. Neck, back and spine injuries are often caused by incorrect manual handling.

Lifts and cranes are used to make loading vans easier and safer, but according to Matthew MacConnell, writing for vanfleetworld, less expensive aids are available to make loading and unloading vans safer.

Lifting slings are an aid for handling loads of between 50 and 100 kg. They can also be used to wrap around circular items to make them easier to handle.

Lifting and moving straps are suitable for two people to aid in the handling of heavy items up to 360 kg. These harness-type straps wrap around the body, leaving the hands free to steady heavy items as they are lifted into or out of a van.

Roller crowbars and skate sets can move very heavy objects and can be secured at fixed points inside the van.

It is also worth investing in premium-quality trolleys from a warehouse equipment producer that are ergonomically designed to minimise stress on the operator’s body when moving items to the van.

Many fleets are switching to electric vans, but find that tail lifts reduce the van’s range, especially in winter when low temperatures further reduce the range. Rather than compromising safety by not using vans with tail lifts, Matthew MacConnell recommends investing in vans with a larger range that are equipped with tail lifts.

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