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Manual Handling Risk Assessment for
USE OF BACK PACK VACUUMS
Activity
Potential
Hazards
Risk
Rating
Control Measures
Responsibility
Bending under or
around objects with
the hose of the
vacuum cleaner.
Muscular strain to
shoulder, neck,
arm.
Medium
Ensure backpack is correctly and securely
fastened around the body to take the load
prior to commencing work.
Check that hose is an appropriate length for
the work being done- not overly long
creating more effort and drag when using.
User of Back Pack. Report
malfunctions to the
Supervisor.
Extending the hose of
the vacuum cleaner to
heights above
shoulder height with
one arm.
Muscular strain to
shoulder, neck,
arm.
Medium
Use extensions or supports for the hose.
This should not involve reaching above
shoulder height. If this is not a solution, a
platform ladder may need to be used. Do
not use a ladder without a platform area
and guard rail.
Supervisor and H&S Rep to
consider options with cleaner.
Some sideways
reaching and
extending may occur
in awkward areas in
and around some
furniture
Muscular skeletal
strain to lower
back area and
also to shoulders
Medium
Make sure manual handling training has
been provided, including the correct use of
the backpack.
Rotate workplace activities so that the
same cleaner is not always working in the
most awkward spots.
Supervisor and H&S Rep to
consider work schedules with
cleaner.
Some forceful forward
movement of the
vacuum hose and
brush
Shoulder and arm
muscular strain
Medium
Make sure manual handling training has
been provided, including the correct use of
the backpack.
Supervisor and H&S Rep to
ensure training and assess
competency.
Constant holding of
the hose whilst
working
Muscular/tendon
stress or pressure Medium
Make sure manual handling training has
been provided, including the correct use of
handgrips when using the vacuum cleaner
Supervisor and H&S Rep to
ensure training and assess
competency.
When vacuuming
under desks and
other furniture, some
stooping will occur
Lower back strain
Medium
Rotate workplace activities so that the
same cleaner is not always working in the
most awkward spots.
Otherwise training and supervision to
ensure correct bending and lifting
techniques are being followed.
Supervisor and H&S Rep to
consider work schedules with
cleaner.
Supervisor and H&S Rep to
ensure training and assess
competency.
Often done in
restricted areas
around furniture,
office equipment,
especially behind
objects
Abrasions and
muscular strain to
arms, legs,
shoulders
Low
Rotate workplace activities so that the
same cleaner is not always working in the
most awkward spots.
Rotate between harder and easier tasks.
Supervisor and H&S Rep to
consider work schedules with
cleaner.