MAN/Mechanical Aids/TBT-MAN-023
Push and Pull Operations Safety
Manual Handling › Mechanical Aids › Push and Pull Operations Safety
Toolbox Talk
Push and Pull Operations Safety
Pushing and pulling heavy loads such as wheelbarrows, trolleys, and pipe lengths across construction sites causes a significant number of musculoskeletal injuries. Many operatives underestimate the forces involved, especially on slopes, rough ground, and across thresholds. Correct technique, suitable equipment, and route planning can dramatically reduce the risk of injury from push and pull tasks.
Key Hazards
Lower back injuries from excessive pushing force on heavy loads
Shoulder and arm strain from pulling loads uphill or over rough ground
Loss of control sending a wheeled load into other workers or excavations
Trips and falls when pushing loads over uneven surfaces or thresholds
Control Measures
- Use wheeled trolleys, barrows, or skates with pneumatic tyres suited to the ground surface.
- Push loads rather than pull them wherever possible to use stronger leg muscles.
- Plan the route in advance and remove obstacles, debris, and cable runs from the path.
- Reduce the load weight to a level that can be moved comfortably on the actual ground conditions.
- Use ramps and hard standing to cross thresholds, kerbs, and changes in level safely.
- Maintain equipment wheels, bearings, and handles in good condition to reduce rolling resistance.
- Work in pairs for heavy or awkward loads that require excessive force from a single person.
- Avoid pushing loads up steep slopes; use mechanical aids such as winches or conveyors instead.
- Brief operatives on correct pushing posture: keep the back straight, lean into the load, and push from the legs.
Remember
- Push loads rather than pull them wherever possible to reduce strain on your back
- Plan the route in advance and clear obstacles before moving any heavy load
- Reduce the load weight if the ground surface makes the push or pull force excessive
- Work in pairs for heavy loads that require excessive force from one person alone
- Keep equipment wheels and bearings maintained to minimise rolling resistance on site
Applicable Legislation: Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 · MHSWR 1999 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 · HSE INDG143 (Manual Handling Assessment Charts)
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