Part Four--Worksite Analysis--Material Handling

Worksite analysis sample checklists for use in your facility.

Today we will present the Material handling analysis. Following are sample checklists that you may wish to use as a guide in developing your own worksite analysis checklists.

These five checklists are included:
Workstation, Task Analysis, Hand Tool Analysis, Material Handling, Computer Workstation.

The checklists are written so that "no" responses indicate potential problem areas that should receive further investigation.


Materials handling checklist
· Has excessive weight lifting been reduced?
· Are materials moved over minimum distances?
· Is the distance between the object and the body minimized?
· Are walking surfaces level?
· Are walking surfaces wide enough?
· Are walking surfaces clean and dry?
· Are walking surfaces well lit?
· Are objects easy to grasp?
· Are objects stable?
· Are objects able to be held without slipping?
· Are there handholds on these objects?
· When required, do gloves fit properly?
· Is the proper footwear worn?
· Is there enough room to maneuver?
· Are mechanical aids easily available and used whenever possible?
· Are working surfaces adjustable to the best handling heights?
· Does material handling avoid movements below knuckle height and above shoulder height?
· Does material handling avoid static muscle loading?
· Does material handling avoid sudden movements during handling?
· Does material handling avoid twisting at the waist?
· Does material handling avoid excessive reaching?
· Is help available for heavy or awkward lifts?
· Are high rates of repetition avoided by job rotation?
· Are high rates of repetition avoided by self pacing?
· Are high rates of repetition avoided by sufficient rest pauses?
· Are pushing and pulling forces reduced or eliminated?
· Does the employee have an unobstructed view of the handling task?
· Is there a preventive maintenance program for equipment?
· Are workers trained in correct handling and lifting procedures?