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Student Learning Guide HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) V1.1

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 2 Disclaimer This guide contains information that is correct at the time of printing. Changes to legislation and/or training products may impact on the currency of information included. The training provider reserves the right to vary and update information without notice. Readers are advised to seek any changed information and/or updates from the training provider. This guide has been prepared as a resource to assist students to understand the requirements of the learning program. © 2023 Copyright Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd: ABN: 71 674 767 447. This document is protected by copyright laws. It was designed and developed by Coast Wide Training Solutions and remains the sole property of Coast Wide Training Solutions. This document may not be reproduced in any way without the prior written authorisation of Coast Wide Training Solutions. This document was originally developed by Coast Wide Training Solutions but may now be altered from the original form. Coast Wide Training Solutions does not accept any liability for these resources and tools, the content and/or any reliance thereon. Any queries can be directed to: Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd ABN: 71 674 767 447 PO Box 65 Old Bar NSW 2430 PH: 0425 353 277 E: admin@coastwidetraining.com.au www.coastwidetraining.com.au Version Control Version: Date: Details of Changes: 1.0 October 2023 Initial Release 1.1 November 2023 Content update

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 3 Contents Contents ....................................................................................... 3 Student Learning Guide HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) ..... 6 Unit Application ............................................................................. 6 Elements and Performance Criteria....................................................... 6 Performance Evidence ..................................................................... 7 Knowledge Evidence ....................................................................... 7 Coastal Care ....................................................................... 9 Topic 1: Workplace Health and Safety..............................................10 Introduction .................................................................................. 10 Work Health and Safety (WHS) Legislation ................................................ 10 WHS Regulations ............................................................................. 11 Codes of Practice .......................................................................... 12 WHS Policies and Procedures ............................................................. 12 Rights and Responsibilities ............................................................... 13 Duty of Care ................................................................................. 15 The Employer’s Duty of Care ............................................................ 15 Duty of Care of Employees ............................................................... 16 Workplace Consultation ..................................................................... 16 Topic 2: Risks and Hazards ........................................................18 Hazards and Risks ........................................................................... 18 Hazard Identification Procedures......................................................... 20 Workplace Inspections .................................................................... 21 Audits....................................................................................... 21 Staff Consultation ......................................................................... 21 Risk Management ............................................................................ 22 Assessing Risk ............................................................................. 23 Controlling Risk ............................................................................ 23 The National Code of Practice for Manual Handling .................................... 25 Monitoring and Reviewing Risk Controls ................................................ 26 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) ...................................................... 27 Sources of Risk .............................................................................. 27 Applying Correct Risk Control Measures................................................... 28 Responding to Hazardous Manual Handling Tasks ........................................ 29 Topic 3: Functions of the Body.....................................................30 The Musculoskeletal System................................................................ 30

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 4 The Back ................................................................................... 31 The Spine .................................................................................. 31 Discs ..................................................................................... 33 Ageing ................................................................................... 34 Spinal Nerves............................................................................ 35 Body Posture ................................................................................. 35 Healthy ..................................................................................... 35 Kyphosis.................................................................................... 36 Flatback .................................................................................... 36 Swayback .................................................................................. 36 Forward Head .............................................................................. 36 Ageing ...................................................................................... 37 Muscles ....................................................................................... 38 Muscle Groups ............................................................................. 39 Principles of Lever ........................................................................... 42 Effort ....................................................................................... 42 Fulcrum..................................................................................... 42 Load ........................................................................................ 43 First-Class Levers ....................................................................... 43 Second-Class Levers ................................................................... 44 Third-Class Levers ...................................................................... 44 Topic 4: Manual Tasks and Injuries ................................................45 Manual Tasks ................................................................................ 45 Manual Handling Tasks...................................................................... 46 Common Manual Handling Tasks and Risks ............................................ 47 Manual Task Injuries ........................................................................ 47 Back Injuries ............................................................................... 48 Topic 5: Handling Techniques......................................................49 Determining Your Personal Capability ..................................................... 49 Safe Body Mechanics ........................................................................ 51 Preparing the Load .......................................................................... 53 Workplace Layout and Environment ....................................................... 55 Topic 6: Aids, Tools, and Equipment ...............................................58 Manual Handling Aids and Equipment ..................................................... 58 Wheelchairs ................................................................................ 58 Transfer Belts .............................................................................. 59 Transport Stretchers ...................................................................... 60

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 5 Transfer Boards............................................................................ 61 Slide Sheets ................................................................................ 62 Hoists ....................................................................................... 62 Mobile Hoists ............................................................................ 63 Ceiling Hoists .............................................................................. 64 Body Sling .................................................................................. 65 Topic 7: Work Tasks and Schedules................................................66 Organise Tasks and Workflow .............................................................. 66 Pace of Work ............................................................................... 67 Scheduled Tasks........................................................................... 67 Topic 8: Workplace Procedures and Reporting ......................................68 Introduction .................................................................................. 68 Manual Handling Procedures ................................................................ 68 Reporting Procedures ........................................................................ 69 Incident and Accident Reporting ......................................................... 69 Reporting Discomfort...................................................................... 72 Workplace Injury and Compensation Claims.............................................. 72 Workplace Injuries ........................................................................ 72 Workplace Compensation ................................................................. 73 Workplace Compensation ................................................................... 73 References ........................................................................74

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 6 Student Learning Guide HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Unit Application This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to recognise potentially hazardous manual tasks, and then to prepare for and complete those tasks in a safe manner. This unit applies to all workers involved in manual handling tasks. The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian/New Zealand standards and industry codes of practice. The Hazardous manual tasks code of practice applies to this work. Elements and Performance Criteria Element Performance Criteria Identify manual tasks involving risk 1.1 Recognise manual tasks that may involve risk to self or others. 1.2 Identify risk factors that make the manual task hazardous. 1.3 Determine the nature and extent of the risk. 1.4 Follow organisation procedures for controlling hazardous manual tasks. Prepare for manual tasks 2.1 Prepare workplace layout and environment according to organisation procedures. 2.2 Organise task and workflow appropriately. 2.3 Prepare and package loads for movement, taking account of specific requirements for different materials and organisation procedures. 2.4 Select and use personal protective equipment appropriate to the task. 2.5 Ensure task is within personal capabilities. Complete manual tasks 3.1 Use appropriate posture and handling techniques to reduce muscle load on exertion. 3.2 Select, adjust and use mechanical aids and handling devices according to manufacturers’ instructions. 3.3 Pace and schedule tasks according to procedures. Contribute to safe work practices 4.1 Identify hazardous manual tasks and report to supervisor according to organisation procedures. 4.2 Follow organisation procedures for reporting symptoms of injury or actual injury to self and others. 4.3 Participate in workplace safety activities and contribute to the improvement of manual tasks. 4.4 Contribute to risk management approach to reduce risks from manual tasks.

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 7 Performance Evidence The candidate must show evidence of the ability to complete tasks outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit, manage tasks and manage contingencies in the context of the job role. There must be evidence that the candidate has: • Followed legally compliant workplace procedures to prepare for and complete at least 3 different manual tasks relevant to the work role. • Contributed to a consultation process about improving manual handling safety. Knowledge Evidence The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively complete tasks outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit, manage tasks and manage contingencies in the context of the work role. This includes knowledge of: • Key information from work health and safety (WHS) regulations relating to manual tasks and national code of practice. • Role and responsibilities of the employer and employees in relation to manual handling safety. • Ways in which individual workers are involved in consultation about workplace health and safety. • Reporting mechanisms required for workplace injury and compensation claims. • Key aspects of the risk management approach to manual tasks. • Risk factors and potential sources of risks of hazardous manual tasks: • Repetition. • Forces. • Postures. • Vibration. • Systems of work. • Types of manual task activity and the types of injuries that can result. • The relationship between the human body and risk of injury from performing manual tasks. • Functions of the human body: • Basic function of the spine. • Body postures. • Types of muscles. • Principles of levers. • Manual handling techniques that support safe work practice: • Preparing the load/client. • Preparing the environment. • Using the stronger muscles in the legs where possible, rather than spinal muscles. • Maintaining a neutral spine when lifting and carrying. • Using two hands to lift or carry. • Keeping the load close to the body/centre of gravity. • Avoiding lifting objects above shoulder height. • Minimising repetitive movements. • Positions not held for long periods of time. • Avoiding twisting by repositioning feet whilst turning. • Types and operational features of mechanical aids, tools, and equipment.

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 8 Please Note: This guide will provide you with general information about the health care industry. Some of the content you will review here will include general requirements, as well as specific state-based rules and regulations. Please ensure you reference the information relevant to your State.

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 9 Coastal Care Coastal Care is a fictional support facility developed by Coast Wide Training Solutions for this course. Throughout your learning, you can refer to this website for ideas and to access resources that will assist you with the completion of learning activities and assessment tasks. To access the website, go to Coastal Care’s website, and use the password CoastwideF250 to enter the site. Resources associated with the business Coastal Care can be found under the ‘Resources’ tab. Look around the website to see what a business website may contain.

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 10 Topic 1: Workplace Health and Safety 4.3 Participate in workplace safety activities and contribute to the improvement of manual tasks. By the end of this topic, the student should be able to: • Apply Work Health and Safety (WHS) procedures and practices when working with clients and manual handling tasks. • Identify the roles and responsibilities of employers and employees regarding workplace safety and consultation. Introduction Safety should always be a top priority when working in care settings. Following an organisation’s safe work practices helps to prevent accidents and injuries as well as keeps the workplace safe. In doing so, employees can reduce the risk of injury and illness to themselves and clients and help create a positive work culture that values safety and wellbeing. An organisation’s safe work practices will be outlined in their Work Health and Safety (WHS) policies and procedures which have been developed to reflect Australian WHS legislation. It is an important part of your role to be aware of your responsibilities, to yourself and others, in ensuring your workplace, whether it is a facility, a client’s home or in the community, remains safe. Policies and procedures should focus on two key areas: 1. Identifying hazards. 2. Managing risks. Providing an understanding of the hazards you may encounter in age or disability support work and how to manage them will assist in meeting your legal obligations and duty of care. Work Health and Safety (WHS) Legislation There is a legal requirement for all workplaces to have WHS policies and procedures. The policies and procedures should outline: • Employer and employee responsibilities. • What the organisation or facility will do to make sure the environment is safe. The policies and procedures are based on both national and state legislation and aim to guide everyone in the workplace in meeting the standards and requirements laid out by law.

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 11 The Commonwealth Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act 2011 is the legislation that sets out the legal framework for work health and safety in Australia. The Act provides a national approach to workplace health and safety by outlining the duties of employers, employees, and other parties (such as volunteers, visitors, and contractors) in relation to ensuring a safe and healthy work environment. The WHS Act aims to protect the health and safety of workers and others who may be affected by the work being carried out, and to prevent work-related injuries, illnesses, and deaths. Safe Work Australia is the national government body who is responsible for developing and maintaining a range of model Work Health and Safety laws, model Codes of Practice, and guidance materials to support the implementation of the Work Health and Safety Act in each Australian state and territory. Each state and territory in Australia have their own work health and safety regulators who enforce the WHS Act. These regulators have the power to investigate workplace incidents, issue fines and penalties, and prosecute businesses and individuals who breach the Act. WHS Regulations WHS regulations set out requirements for specific hazards and risks such as manual handling, noise etc. Regulations outline how organisations should manage the WHS of these hazards and risks, so employees remain safe and healthy while working. The following diagram shows the key areas that support workers will encounter in their workplace. The first three are particularly important for safe manual handling. We will look at these throughout the unit.

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 12 Codes of Practice Codes of Practice are a set of practical guidelines on how to comply with the requirements of both the WHS Act and WHS Regulations. They provide guidance on areas including identifying hazards, risk assessment processes, risk control, and duty of care. Some Codes of Practice related to safe manual handling include: • Hazardous manual tasks • How to manage work health and safety risks • Work health and safety consultation, cooperation and coordination • First aid in the workplace These Codes of Practice help guide employers and employees understand safe practices to protect the wellbeing of everyone and deliver high-quality care to patients. WHS Policies and Procedures As discussed earlier, all workplaces must have WHS policies and procedures in place in their organisation. WHS Policies are written statements that outline the guidelines that govern its activities. For most organisations their WHS policies would aim to prevent work-related injuries and illnesses, promote safe work practices and behaviours, and ensure compliance with relevant legislation and regulations. Procedures, on the other hand, are step-by-step instructions that detail how specific tasks or activities should be performed to ensure consistency, efficiency, and compliance with policies and regulations. For safe manual handling, WHS policies and procedures focus on the following areas: • Hazard identification and risk management. • Manual handling. • Personal protective equipment. • Emergency procedures. • Reporting and incident documentation. • Roles and responsibility of WHS team. • Consultation between employees and the employer. Identifying and managing hazardsPersonal protective equipment Hazardous manual tasksRisk management

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 13 All employees should receive training on the organisation’s WHS policies and procedures when you are first employed at a workplace. Training should also be provided in the following instances: • The procedure is updated to implement a new practice. • The WHS legislation, WHS regulation or a specific Code of Practice has changed. • There is new equipment in the workplace. • A new brand of equipment is in the workplace. • The is an updated piece of equipment in the workplace. • Each year to make sure aged care and other sector mandatory training requirements are met. It is important for you as an employee to be aware of WHS policies and procedures in the workplace. Rights and Responsibilities Under the Act, safety is everyone’s responsibility. This includes the employer, and every employee in the organisation. The Act also states that the employer or owner of the business also known as the ‘person conducting business or undertaking’ (PCBU) have the overall responsibility for implementing and monitoring the WHS Act in their organisation. This is considered their Duty of Care. This means the PCBU has the legal responsibility of a person or organisation to take reasonable measures to avoid causing harm to others. Employees duty of care is to themselves, colleagues, clients, or residents. The table below outlines some of the ways that both the employer and employees can ensure that WHS is followed in the workplace: Employer Employees Provide a safe workplace. Take reasonable care for their own health and safety. Implement a risk management procedure. Follow the employers’ policies and procedures. Provide regular safety training and education. Report any hazards or incidents. Consult with workers on WHS matters. Attend all safety training and education. Ensure compliance of WHS. Be aware of all emergency procedures. Provide appropriate PPE. Do not endanger the safety of their colleagues, clients and others. Provide First aid facilities. Wear PPE as outlined in policies and procedures.

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 14 To understand the full range of responsibilities you can access the WHS Act 2011 by clicking on the following link: Safe Work Australia Along with responsibilities come rights. As a worker you have the right to: Refuse work you feel may be unsafe. Ask questions about procedures or equipment if you feel concerned about any safety aspects. Employers have the right to: • Take action against employees who are not following WHS policies and procedures. • Refuse work that puts employees at risk. • Expect staff to follow WHS policies and procedures. • Monitor work practices of staff to make sure they are compliant in accordance with the Act. Clients also have rights and responsibilities in relation to workplace health and safety. A client’s home in the community becomes a workplace when a support or care worker enters to provide service. The client has the responsibility of: • Ensuring the environment is safe. • Providing up to date information about any issues that could put the worker at risk, for example, a transmissable illness. • Pets to be restrained or put outside during home visits. • Not smoking while the support or care worker is present. In turn, employers have the right to request that all employees follow infection control policies and procedures, carry out manual handling safely and ensure all work is conducted in a safe manner and not to attend to their service when they are sick.

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 15 Duty of Care A duty of care is a legal responsibility to ensure the safety and wellbeing of others. This means employers have an obligation to provide a safe work environment for all employees. It also means that employees provide a duty of care to their clients and patients. The Employer’s Duty of Care The following table sets out the duty of care requirements for an employer. Requirement Description Safe Work Environment Employers have a responsibility to create and maintain a safe work environment for their employees. This includes: • Identify and reduce potential hazards related to manual handling activities by assessing the risk. • Implement appropriate control measures. • Provide necessary resources and equipment to ensure safe practices for employees. Training and Education All employers must provide training and education to ensure employees have the knowledge and skills to perform their duties safely. Policies and Procedures Policies and procedures that relate to all WHS activity including manual handling must be implemented in every workplace. Employees should have easy access to procedures so they can use them as a guide to ensure they and their clients/patients are safe. Adequate Staffing Employers have a duty to ensure that there are enough staff to perform manual handling tasks safely. Giving employees with excessive workloads can increase the risk of injuries due to fatigue or rushing through tasks. Risk Assessment and Control Regular risk assessments in the workplace to identify potential hazards and implement appropriate control measures must be conducted. This may involve providing ergonomic equipment, modifying work processes, or using mechanical aids to reduce the physical demands of manual handling tasks. Monitoring and Support Regular monitoring of safe manual handling practices and providing ongoing support to employees. This may include reviews, feedback, and consulting with employees about their concerns or suggest improvements to manual handling procedures. Reporting and Investigation A reporting system that records all incidents, near misses, and hazards related to manual handling must be in every workplace. Incidents must be promptly reported, investigated thoroughly, and appropriate corrective actions are implemented to prevent the incident from occurring again.

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 16 Duty of Care of Employees The following table sets out the duty of care requirements for an employee. Requirement Description Competence Employees have a duty to be able to provide care in their respective roles. This includes having the knowledge, skills qualifications, stay updated on best practices. Risk Assessment Employees must assess the risks associated with manual handling tasks. This involves: • Identify potential hazards. • Consider a client/patient’s needs. • Consider the capabilities of clients/patients. • Implement the appropriate measures to reduce risks. Implementation of Safe Practices Proper manual handling techniques must be used when lifting, carrying, or moving patients, equipment, or supplies. Knowing the best handling techniques, knowing which assistive devices to use, and seeking assistance when handling heavy loads are examples of implementing safe practices. These will be discussed in another topic. Communication and Informed Consent Employees are to verbally explain the risks with manual handling and seek consent from client/patients before performing any manual handling activities. Documentation There is a duty to maintain accurate and up-to-date records of manual handling activities including any risk assessments, training records, incident reports, or changes in a client’s/patient's condition that may impact manual handling requirements. Ongoing Monitoring and Review Employees should continuously monitor and review the effectiveness of manual handling practices adjusting as necessary to ensure the ongoing safety and wellbeing of clients/patients. Workplace Consultation Consulting with employees is an essential part of managing work health and safety. Employees carry out manual tasks every day so who better than to discuss improvements to safety than the employees. The WHS Act also states that employers are to do this, that means it is a legal requirement for employers to consult with employees.

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 17 Your employer (or PCBU) must consult with employees on the following: • Ways to eliminate or minimise risks. • Proposed changes to processes or procedures. • Facilities that contribute to employee welfare. • Training. During a consultation, you have the opportunity to express your thoughts and ideas on how to improve safe practices. Some examples could be: • Proper lifting techniques. • Workspace layout to make sure there is a clear path transporting clients/patients. • Proper equipment and tools such as lifting aids. • Loads and weight. • Team communication to make sure everyone understands the same techniques and procedures. • Reporting procedures to make sure employees understand how to report if they experience any discomfort from manual handling. • Preventing injuries. Consultations take place in several ways: • Workplace consultation meetings. • Staff meeting. • WHS survey. • Talking to a WHS representative at your workplace. By participating in workplace consultations, you are meeting your duty of care to yourself and your clients/patients. Remember, WHS is everyone’s responsibility.

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 18 Topic 2: Risks and Hazards 1.1 Recognise manual tasks that may involve risk to self or others. 1.2 Identify risk factors that make the manual task hazardous . 1.3 Determine the nature and extent of the risk. 2.4 Select and use personal protective equipment appropriate to the task . 4.4 Contribute to risk management approach to reduce risks from manual tasks . By the end of this topic, the student should be able to: • Identify manual tasks and the hazards and risks relating to manual handling. • Assess and control risks relating to manual handling including the application of personal protective equipment for various manual tasks. • Describe risk factors and their sources in relation to repetition, forces, postures, vibration, and systems of work. Hazards and Risks A hazard is anything that has the potential to cause harm to a person, place, or environment. Risk is the likelihood and severity of these outcomes. Hazards equal risks. An exposure to a hazard may result in illness, injury, or damage. Hazards and risks will differ depending on your workplace; however, they can be grouped into the following common categories.

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 19 It is important that support or care workers are aware of all the possible hazards and risks that present themselves in their day-to-day work. Hazard identification is the process of identifying and assessing actual and potential hazards or risks that could cause harm, injury, or damage to people, property, or the environment. Your organisation or facility will provide training in their hazard identification procedure prior to commencing work. Let’s look at the types of hazards in each category and the risk they could present to workers. Type of hazard Example Possible risk Environmental • Trip/slip hazards – wet floors, rugs etc. • Designs of bathrooms in private homes. • Pets. • Hoarding. • Musculoskeletal injury, fracture from trips/slips, hoarding and being in awkward positions during personal care tasks. • Bites and infection. Physical • Any manual handling task that involves lifting, pulling, pushing, or supporting clients or equipment. • Musculoskeletal injury. People-based • Aggressive clients or family members. • Bullying and harassment from staff. • Exposure to client death. • Clients effected by drugs and alcohol. • Behaviours of concern. • Psychological harm including mental health concerns and grief. • Physical injury. Biological • Exposure to transmissible infections and body fluids. • Exposure to infection and their possible consequences (time off work, long term complications). Chemical • Exposure to cleaning fluids. • Clients who smoke. • Skin, eyes, nose, and throat irritation or burns. • Respiratory issues. Systems of work • Lifting and handling loads • Repetitive movements • Working in confined spaces (bathrooms/toilets) • Musculoskeletal injury. Other common manual handling risks and hazardous manual handling tasks are discussed further in Topic 4.

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 20 Hazard Identification Procedures Everyone in the workplace is responsible for identifying hazards. It is an element of a support or care workers duty of care. Organisations will each have their own policy and procedures and accompanying documentation in relation to identifying hazards, which is part of what is called risk management. Risk management is the process of identifying, assessing, and controlling risks that could negatively impact individuals or organisations. It involves: • Evaluating the likelihood of risks occurring and their potential impact to a person or organisation. • Developing strategies to address potential risks. • Implementing measures to reduce the risk occurring or the impact of the risk if it occurs. The goal of risk management is to minimise potential losses or negative consequences. The first step in risk management is to identify hazards. This step is to be carried out on a regular basis. It should be something that employers and employees do automatically as part of their day-to-day role, however they also need to be assessed when: • New clients come to the facility, or a new home client is added to the roster. • Visiting a new client’s home. • New equipment or procedures are being introduced. • There has been an increase in incidents or accidents.

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 21 Hazards can also be identified in the workplace through: Let’s have a look at each one in more detail. Workplace Inspections These should be conducted on a regular basis by the PCBU or those under their supervision such as management or Workplace Health and Safety Representatives in the workplace. Inspections are to be conducted on facilities, equipment, processes, resources, and client homes to identify actual or potential hazards. Identifying potential hazards is important in reducing risk as soon as possible. Inspections are usually completed using formal checklists which are used to develop risk management strategies. In community care formal inspections of a client’s home should take place either prior to or on the first visit. Audits These are comprehensive reviews of the WHS programs in the workplace. For example, an organisation may conduct an audit on their infection control risk management procedure. This would involve reviewing the current policy and procedure, monitoring compliance with the procedure through observation and review of any incidents associated with the procedure to determine if further action needs to be taken to reduce risks. Staff Consultation This is a legal requirement of the WHS Act 2011. The PCBU should speak with employees who work in the area to gain insight into potential hazards they may have noticed. This could take place in WHS Committee meetings, in general staff meetings where WHS is a permanent agenda item, in daily conversations or specific WHS only meetings. Employees are often the best source of information about workplace hazards as you are the ones using the equipment, following the procedures, and working in the environment on a daily basis.

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 22 Data reviews are often conducted when there is an increase in incidents, accidents or near misses or when particular injury patterns begin to emerge. All the documentation related to a particular issue – incident reports, audit and inspection data, sick leave and injury registers are all reviewed to determine actual hazards and allow risk management strategies to be developed and implemented. Once hazards have been identified and reported strategies to reduce their risk must be developed. This is the role of risk management. Risk Management Risk management is a four-step process, the first of which is hazard identification. The remaining steps are: • Assess the risk. • Control the risk. • Review the control measures. Risk management, or risk minimisation is a continuous process (as can be seen in the following diagram). Image based on diagram from How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Code of Practice 2011

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 23 Let’s examine the three remaining steps associated with risk management in more detail. Assessing Risk Once a hazard has been identified, the actual or possible risk caused by the hazard needs to be assessed. Two elements are considered during this assessment: 1. The level of risk: The likelihood of injury, illness or death occurring. 2. The outcome of the risk: The severity of the consequence – minor (applied first aid) to major (serious injury or death). Risks are assessed using a risk matrix (as seen below) and can be classified as: Low/Minor: Here there is a low or less chance of someone being injured. Medium/moderate: The possibility of injury or accident increases. High/major: Here it is highly likely that someone will be injured or worse. Determining the level and possible consequences of a risk assists those developing control measures to determine which hazards must be dealt with as a priority. Organisations and facilities should conduct risk assessments on all new clients, venues, activities, equipment, and procedures. Likelihood Consequence Rare Unlikely Possible Likely Almost certain Minor: Potential first aid Low Low Low Medium Medium Moderate: Possible medical treatment for illness or injury Low Low Medium Medium High Major: Possible serious injury or death Low Medium Medium High High Controlling Risk Risk control refers to the strategies and actions that employers take to eliminate or minimise potential hazards and risks that could cause harm to employees, visitors, or members of the public. It is a key aspect of good WHS management. The risk control process involves developing and implementing appropriate control measures. To do this, the WHS Act 2011, has established a framework for all workplace to use. It is known as the hierarchy of control.

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 24 The hierarchy of control has 6 categories: • Elimination: Remove the hazard from the workplace. • Substitution: Replace with a safer option. • Isolation: Remove people from the hazard. • Engineering: Modify equipment or redesign equipment. • Administrative: Provide training and have workplace procedures to reduce the risk. • Personal protective equipment (PPE): Provide PPE to people to keep them safe. It ranks the best methods for controlling risks and hazards from the highest level of effectiveness to the lowest. According to the WHS Act 2011 and its attached codes of practice the most important step in managing risks involves eliminating them so far as is reasonably practicable. Reasonably practicable means what can be done at the time and with appropriate WHS knowledge. If is not reasonably practicable, the risk must be minimised by working through the other alternatives in the hierarchy, that is, substitution, engineering, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment. Administrative controls and personal protective equipment (PPE) are the least effective at minimising risk because they do not control the hazard at the source and rely on human behaviour and supervision.

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 25 These control measures should only be used: • As a back-up to supplement higher level control measures, • As a short-term measure until a more effective way of controlling the risk can be used, or • As a last resort when there are no other practical control measures available. The National Code of Practice for Manual Handling The National Code of Practice for Manual Handling is a comprehensive set of guidelines designed to ensure safe and efficient manual handling practices in the work environment, whether it be a facility or a client’s home. It outlines best practices for the lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, and carrying of loads by workers, with the goal of minimising the risk of injury and promoting overall health and safety. The code emphasizes the importance of risk assessment, proper training, and the use of appropriate equipment and techniques to prevent musculoskeletal injuries. The code is a practical guide on how to reduce the associated risks or eliminate the need for a manual task altogether. An organisation’s manual handling policies and procedures should be built around the code and include risk controls such as using equipment to reduce lifting loads, like hoists and trolleys and employees receiving comprehensive and regular training in safe work practices. The procedures should also include equipment maintenance to ensure it itself does not present a risk, the empowerment of clients maintain as much independence in their care as possible and the reduction of time constraints that could place people at risk by using shortcuts. Regular manual handling activities should be risk assessed and control measures put in place to reduce the risk. We previously discussed the use of the hierarchy of control to determine the best means of dealing with actual or potential hazards. The same principles can apply to manual handling control. Let’s have a look at the hierarchy of control again with a focus on manual handling.

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 26 An important part of controlling risk is ensuring that your chosen control measures are maintained after their initial implementation. This is done through the fourth and final step of the process, control measure review. Monitoring and Reviewing Risk Controls Risk controls should be reviewed regularly to make sure they work as intended. They should not be reviewed only when things go wrong. Reviews are also required under legislation when: • The control measure is no longer effective at managing the risk. • A change at the workplace is to be introduced that is likely to create a new or different health and safety risk that the control measure may not effectively control. • A new hazard or risk is identified. • The results of consultation indicate that a review is necessary, or • A health and safety representative requests a review. Reviews may result in changes to processes or the development of new risk controls. All staff within an organisation should be informed of the changes to immediately reduce the risk of incidents or accidents. Identifying and managing risks is everyone’s responsibility in the workplace. By following the policies and procedures of your organisation you will be contributing to a safe and healthy work environment. Reorganising workplace layouts to eliminate carrying, lifting, or moving loads. Decreasing the weight of loads by splitting into smaller loads. Lifting equipment, mechanical aides. Work practices, training safe lif ting and handling techniques. Provide PPE like gloves and footwear.

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 27 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) While each of the hierarchy of control measures is applied in the workplace, PPE will be one of the most common forms of risk control measures you will use. Personal protective equipment (PPE) refers to any clothing or equipment that a person wears or uses to protect themselves from workplace hazards and risks. When carrying out any manual handling activity, workers wear PPE to minimise the potential risk of injury to themselves and their client/patient. The type of PPE you select, and use will depend on the manual handling task you are performing. Some types of PPE you could expect to wear when performing a manual handling activity in a healthcare setting are: • Hand protection such as disposable gloves to minimise fluid transmission. • Foot protection such as closed toed shoes to prevent injury. • Face mask if a patient/client has a respiratory illness. • Back support belts for lifting patients/clients. Sources of Risk Manual handling can pose risks to both you as a healthcare worker and to your patients. Understanding what can cause a risk to a person’s body helps to ensure the safety and wellbeing of everyone when manual tasks are performed. A risk factor is a cause, condition or behaviour that can increase the likelihood of a person being impacted by an injury or illness. In manual handing, this is the likelihood of sustaining a short- or long-term injury to your body. There are several risk factors that are associated with manual tasks. Let’s have a look at five (5) sources of risk. Repetition Repetitive tasks such as lifting and transferring patients or regularly adjusting equipment can lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Workers may experience strains, sprains, and other injuries due to the repetitive nature of their tasks. Example of repetitive tasks are repositioning patients, transferring patients and changing beds. Reducing repetition involves implementing assistive devices, reorganising work processes, and providing proper training. We will look at assistive devices and work processes in later topics. It is important to wear any other personal protective equipment (PPE) according to your workplace WHS or Infection Control procedures.

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 28 Forces Workers often need to apply significant force when performing manual handling tasks. Examples of force are lifting and moving patients or heavy medical equipment. Applying too much force can increase the risk of injuries such as muscle strains or joint sprains. Using mechanical aids like hoists and slide sheets can help reduce the physical strain and reduce the risk of injury. Postures Awkward postures such as bending, twisting, or reaching can lead to strain on muscles and joints. Workers may often need to maintain uncomfortable positions for long periods while performing tasks. Understanding how the functions of the body helps in understanding how to minimise posture-related risks. We will be looking at functions of the body and posture in the next topic. Vibration Vibration can come from medical devices or equipment and can contribute to long-term health issues. Exposure over a period of time may result in disorders like hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) or lower back pain. Examples of vibration are using electric or powered equipment such as a hoist, transporting clients in vehicles, the use of medical equipment. Reducing vibration exposure can involve equipment maintenance and using anti-vibration gloves. Systems of Work The workflow within a healthcare environment can significantly impact the risk associated with manual tasks. Inadequate staffing levels, rushed work environments, and lack of training can all contribute to accidents and injuries. Having effective systems of work will be discussed in a later topic. Applying Correct Risk Control Measures As with infection, musculoskeletal injury can be short term or have a lifelong impact, therefore it is crucial to apply the correct control measures when performing manual handling tasks. You should receive practical training in all areas of manual handling such as: • Transferring, moving, and supporting people who are ageing or with a disability. • Providing support with personal care tasks such as showering and toileting. • Assisting people in wheelchairs. • Handling wheelchairs and mobility equipment in and out of vehicles. • Moving and lifting objects. • Safe domestic cleaning – correct methods for vacuuming, mopping, and cleaning in domestic houses.

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 29 Each manual handling task should have its own easy-to-understand procedure with accompanying visual instructions. If you come across a task that you are unfamiliar with, you should be able to easily access your manual handling procedures to see if instructions exist. If they do not have instructions, you should contact your supervisor to get advice on how to proceed. If your supervisor is not available, you should not perform the task. A new procedure should then be developed to deal with the task. Individual risk controls relating to clients will be recorded in their care plans. If you have a new client, it is important that you read and follow all necessary manual handling instructions. Again, if you are unfamiliar with the procedure or have not been trained in the use of the equipment do not perform the task and contact your supervisor. Responding to Hazardous Manual Handling Tasks It is important to be aware of any potential hazards that may put yourself or someone else in danger. If you do notice a situation that poses a risk, you must take action. If you are able to do so and it is within your level of responsibility, you should also take steps to make the situation safe. This may involve isolating an area or removing a hazardous object, reporting the situation and seeking assistance where needed. Sometimes you may witness a safety concern such as seeing someone who may be doing something in an unsafe way. For instance, a colleague is using an improper transfer technique when moving a patient from their bed to a chair. It is important to offer some guidance on the correct technique. You could refer them to a workplace procedure, poster, training manual or website showing the proper technique. For example, a colleague is using the incorrect technique when pushing a wheelchair. Have a look at the image below to see the incorrect and correct techniques for pushing a wheelchair. The first image shows a person pushing the wheelchair using a poor posture. Over time, this could cause an injury to the person. Using the correct technique (the image on the right) means the risk of injury is minimised. We will look at reporting incidents and accidents in topic 8.

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 30 Topic 3: Functions of the Body By the end of this topic, the student should be able to: • Understand the characteristics and functions of the spine. • Recognise and rectify poor body postures. • Identify the different types of muscles and their uses. • Recall principles of lever in the body. The Musculoskeletal System It is important to understand certain functions of the body to reduce the risk of injury when conducting manual handling tasks. One of the most common injuries that occurs when performing a manual handling task is a musculoskeletal injury. The musculoskeletal system relates to the skeleton and includes bones, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and connective tissue. Examples of musculoskeletal injuries that can occur in manual handling are: • Back injuries. • Ligament damage. • Sprained and strained muscles. • Tendon damage in shoulders, elbows, and wrists. • Nerve pain or damage. Source: Pain- A Better Understanding - Šport & Body Terapia (sportandbodyterapia.com) There can be a lot of manual handling working in the healthcare industry. It is therefore important to have a good understanding of how your body functions so you can make

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 31 sure that you implement best practice techniques when performing manual handling tasks. Let’s have a look at some key function of the body. The Back The back is a larger area than just the spine and extends from the base of the skull to the bottom and from shoulder to shoulder. The back supports the spine, but it also has its own functions. It protects the kidneys, includes the shoulder blades, and has many muscles that help the upper body move. Source: LillyCantabile from Pixabay The Spine The spine is also known as the vertebral column or spinal column. It has a series of individual bones called vertebrae that are stacked on top of each other. There are 33 vertebrae. The spine extends from the base of the skull down to the lower back (sacrum) and tailbone (coccyx). The main function of the spine is that it: • Provides structural support for the body. • Protects the spinal cord. • Allows for movement such as bending, twisting, and extending. The spine has four (4) distinct sections or curves: • Cervical (neck). • Lumbar (lower back). • The thoracic (upper back). • Sacral (lower spine). These curves are important for providing the spine with stability and balance. This allows people to move and flex without putting too much strain on the spine.

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 32 The lower part of the spine has to carry a larger weight load, so this section of the spine is larger and tougher than the upper section of the spine. The lower vertebrae ensure that entire spine is stable as it carries the majority of the body's weight. Source: NorTex Spine & Joint Institute Notice in the image above how the cervical and lumbar spine curve inwards whilst the thoracic and sacrum curve outward. Did you know? One of the common injuries people suffer from incorrect manual handling is perforated or herniated discs.

HLTWHS005 - Conduct manual tasks safely (Release 1) Student Learning Guide © 2023 Coast Wide Training Solutions Pty Ltd | HLTWHS005 Student Learning Guide CWTS V1.1.docx 33 Discs There are discs between the vertebrae which act as shock absorbers and allow the spine to move, bend and move our upper body. When the discs work as shock absorbers, they help soften the impact of movements we make when we run, jump, or perform other physical activity. We place more pressure on our spine when we are standing upright than when we are lying down. When pressure is applied to the spine, the spinal discs release fluid and become thinner. This is known as compressing. When the pressure is relieved, the discs absorb fluid again and become thicker. This is known as decompressing. Pressure is best relieved lying down. This is when discs restore more of their thickness. Have a look at the normal disc in the image below. The disc fluid is restored, and you can see how this would act as a shock absorber when we move. Source: Infinity Health and Osteo Let’s have a look at the difference between some disc-related conditions that can affect the spine. Degenerative discs Degenerative disc disease is caused by the gradual breakdown of discs over time due to losing their fluid and shock absorbency. This can occur as part of the ageing process. Factors such as genetics, wear and tear, and lifestyle choices such as poor nutrition can contribute to disc degeneration. Symptoms can include pain, stiffness, and reduced movement and mobility.