Manual Handling policy template
A comprehensive policy addressing risks from lifting, carrying, pushing and pulling tasks. Covers safe techniques, equipment use, training requirements and injury prevention strategies for Australian workplaces.
Manual handling policy
PDF format • Ready to download
By downloading, you agree to our template disclaimer
Why you need a manual handling policy
Manual handling injuries are among the most common workplace injuries in Australia. Back injuries, muscle strains and musculoskeletal disorders account for a significant proportion of workers' compensation claims.
Under WHS legislation, employers must identify manual handling hazards and manage risks through elimination, substitution or other control measures. This includes providing training, safe work procedures and appropriate equipment.
A clear manual handling policy helps prevent injuries, reduces workers' compensation costs and supports compliance with Australian WHS laws.
Key elements of this policy
Comprehensive manual handling risk management
Manual handling risks
Identify hazards from lifting, carrying, pushing and pulling tasks.
Safe techniques
Proper body mechanics and safe lifting methods.
Mechanical aids
Using trolleys, hoists and other equipment to reduce strain.
Training requirements
Ensuring workers know how to handle loads safely.
Risk assessment
Evaluating manual handling tasks before they begin.
Injury prevention
Strategies to prevent musculoskeletal disorders.
What's included in this template
Complete manual handling guidance
Purpose & scope
Why this policy exists and who it applies to.
Manual handling defined
What counts as manual handling under WHS law.
Risk factors
Forces, postures, repetition and environmental factors.
Risk assessment
How to identify and assess manual handling hazards.
Safe work procedures
Step-by-step guidance for common tasks.
Mechanical aids
When and how to use equipment to assist.
Training requirements
Mandatory training for workers doing manual handling.
Reporting concerns
How to raise hazards or early signs of injury.
Worker responsibilities
Individual obligations to work safely.
Review & improvement
Monitoring effectiveness and updating controls.
Who should use this template?
Essential for industries with manual handling tasks
Legal disclaimer
This template is designed to reflect Australian WHS requirements at the time of publication. It is provided as a general guide only and does not constitute legal advice.
You should review and tailor this template to suit your business, industry and specific manual handling hazards in your workplace.
Regulatory sources
This template is aligned with official Australian workplace health and safety requirements.
Ready to prevent manual handling injuries?
Download our Manual Handling policy template and implement effective controls to protect your workers from lifting-related injuries. Store this policy and track employee acknowledgements with RosterElf's HR software.
Looking for more templates? Browse all safety & compliance templates
Manual handling policy FAQ
- Manual handling includes lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, carrying, holding, restraining, and any activity requiring physical effort. Hazardous manual handling involves risk factors like heavy loads, awkward postures, repetitive movements, or sustained force.
- There is no single legal weight limit. Risk depends on multiple factors: the load weight, size and grip, lifting posture, frequency, distance carried, and the individual worker. Use risk assessment to determine safe limits for each task.
- Apply the hierarchy of controls: eliminate manual handling where possible, use mechanical aids (trolleys, hoists, conveyors), redesign tasks and workstations, train workers in safe techniques, and ensure workers are fit for the tasks.
- Yes. This template provides a solid foundation, but you should tailor it to reflect your specific workplace hazards, industry requirements, and applicable WHS legislation. Consult with your workers and health and safety representatives during the customisation process.
- Distribute the policy during safety induction for new employees and via toolbox talks or safety meetings for existing staff. Ensure the policy is accessible on noticeboards or your intranet. Using HR software with policy management can track acknowledgements.
Related guides
Learn more about implementing this policy
Related templates
Complement your manual handling policy
Disclaimer
This document is a general HR template provided for informational purposes only. It is not legal advice and may not reflect the latest changes in legislation or apply to every workplace situation. RosterElf Pty Ltd and the template provider accept no liability for any loss arising from reliance on this document. Users should seek independent legal advice and customise the template to ensure it complies with all relevant laws, awards and workplace requirements.