• Use pallet trucks, sack barrows, or conveyors to reduce manual lifting of cement bags.
• Lift bags using correct technique — knees bent, load close, lifting with legs.
• Rotate bagging tasks with the team to reduce cumulative manual handling strain.
• Wear RPE and gloves when opening bags and working in dusty cement environments.
• Use rated mechanical lifting for all bulk bags — never drag or manually move tonne bags.
• Check bulk bag loops for damage before attaching them to the lifting equipment.
• Store bags on pallets in stable stacks protected from rain and moisture.
• Plan deliveries close to the point of use to minimise carrying distances.
• Coordinate team lifts clearly — one person leads and communicates throughout.
• Report back pain or shoulder strain before it develops into chronic injury.

• DON'T lift cement bags all day without using mechanical aids and task rotation.
• DON'T bend at the waist to lift bags — use your legs with the load held close.
• DON'T ignore cumulative strain — rotate tasks before injury develops.
• DON'T handle cement without RPE and gloves — the dust irritates lungs and skin.
• DON'T attempt to manually move bulk bags — they require mechanical lifting only.
• DON'T lift bulk bags with damaged, frayed, or cut lifting loops.
• DON'T store cement bags on bare ground or exposed to rain — they set solid.
• DON'T accept deliveries at the far end of the site when closer placement is possible.
• DON'T carry heavy bags alone without coordination with the team on lifting sequence.
• DON'T dismiss early pain — report it and get treatment before permanent damage occurs.

See also: Manual Handling Awareness | Correct Lifting Technique