What is a key action to minimize manual handling when starting on a new site?

Evaluating equipment placement with the site manager is crucial for minimizing manual handling on a new site. By assessing where equipment and materials are positioned, you can strategically organize the layout to reduce the distance workers need to move items and ensure that they have easy access to the tools and materials they require. This proactive approach helps in designing workflows that prioritize safety and efficiency.

Proper placement can lead to better ergonomics, reducing the risk of injuries associated with lifting and carrying heavy loads. It also allows for the consideration of optimal pathways for movement, which can further decrease the likelihood of accidents and improve overall productivity on the site. By collaborating with the site manager, safety measures can be ingrained from the start, fostering a safer working environment right from the outset.

In contrast, distributing materials randomly around the site can create obstacles and increase the distances workers need to travel, elevating the risk of strain and accidents. Instructing workers to carry supplies individually does not encourage safer practices either, as it may lead to excessive loading and unbalanced lifting. Lastly, limiting the use of machinery would not reduce manual handling effectively, as machinery is often utilized precisely to assist in heavy lifting and transport tasks.