MAN/General/TBT-MAN-008

Team Lifting and Mechanical Aids

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Team Lifting and Mechanical Aids

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-MAN-008  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
PresenterProject
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What?

  • Team lifting is used when a load is too heavy or awkward for one person to handle safely.
  • Two people do not double the capacity — coordination reduces the effective capacity significantly.
  • A team lift must be led by one person who gives clear commands for all movements.
  • Mechanical aids such as trolleys, vacuum lifters, and mini cranes should be used where possible.
  • The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 require employers to avoid manual handling where practical.
  • Where handling cannot be avoided, the risk must be reduced using mechanical aids first.
  • Common aids include pallet trucks, kerb lifters, block grabs, and pipe trolleys.
  • Operatives must be trained in the correct use of mechanical aids and team techniques.
  • The load's weight, shape, grip points, and route must be assessed before a team lift.
  • Injuries from poorly coordinated lifts include back strains, crushed fingers, and dropped loads.

Why?

Prevent injuriesManual handling causes over a third of all workplace injuries in UK construction.
Legal dutyThe Manual Handling Regulations require mechanical aids wherever practical.
Coordination riskTeam lifts without a leader cause dropped loads and crush injuries.
Long-term healthRepeated heavy lifting causes chronic back pain and musculoskeletal disorders.
Do Don't
  • Use a mechanical aid in preference to manual handling wherever possible.
  • Appoint a team leader to give clear lift, move, and lower commands.
  • Assess the load weight, shape, and grip points before any team lift.
  • Plan the route and clear obstacles before lifting and moving the load.
  • Ensure all team members can see and hear the leader's commands clearly.
  • Match team members by height and strength for balanced load sharing.
  • Inspect mechanical aids before use and report any defects immediately.
  • Train all operatives in the correct use of available mechanical aids.
  • Take breaks and rotate tasks to prevent fatigue during repetitive handling.
  • Use gloves with good grip to reduce the risk of dropping loads.
  • DON'T attempt a team lift without an appointed leader giving commands.
  • DON'T assume two people can safely lift double what one person can.
  • DON'T carry loads over uneven ground without checking the route first.
  • DON'T use damaged or defective mechanical aids — report and replace them.
  • DON'T twist your body while carrying a load in a team lift.
  • DON'T rush a team lift — take time to coordinate and communicate.
  • DON'T lift loads manually when a mechanical aid is available.
  • DON'T carry loads that block your view of the route ahead.
  • DON'T ignore pain or discomfort during lifting — stop and report it.
  • DON'T operate mechanical aids without training on that specific equipment.

See also: Manual Handling Awareness | Correct Lifting Technique
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