Handling blocks, bricks, and masonry is one of the most physically demanding tasks on a construction site. The repetitive nature of the work combined with heavy individual unit weights and awkward hand positions causes a high rate of musculoskeletal injuries. This talk covers the manual handling risks specific to masonry work and the controls that reduce the physical strain on operatives.
Key Hazards
Back injuries from repetitive bending and lifting heavy blocks from ground level
Hand and finger injuries from rough block surfaces and pinch points during stacking
Shoulder strain from lifting blocks overhead to scaffold platform working height
Foot crush injuries from blocks dropped during manual handling operations
Control Measures
Use mechanical aids such as block grabs, brick clamps, or mini cranes to move packs to the work area.
Position block packs at waist height on scaffold platforms to eliminate bending from ground level.
Limit the weight of individual blocks to what can be safely handled by one person for the task.
Use team lifts with clear coordination for heavy or awkward masonry units that exceed single-person limits.
Rotate workers between masonry handling and lighter tasks to reduce cumulative strain each shift.
Wear rigger gloves to protect hands from rough surfaces and improve grip during handling.
Stack blocks and bricks no higher than the specified safe height to prevent toppling.
Plan material deliveries so blocks are placed as close to the work area as possible.
Report any pain, discomfort, or muscle strain to your supervisor before it worsens.
Remember
Use mechanical aids to move block and brick packs to the work area wherever possible
Position packs at waist height on scaffold platforms to eliminate lifting from ground level
Rotate between masonry handling and lighter tasks to manage cumulative physical strain
Wear rigger gloves to protect hands from rough block surfaces and improve grip security
Stack blocks no higher than the specified safe height to prevent toppling and crush injuries
Report any pain, discomfort, or strain to your supervisor before the condition worsens
Applicable Legislation: Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 · CDM Regulations 2015 · Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999