(in German)

The manual pushing and pulling of loads is a type of physical workload commonly experienced by workers. Usually, especially when the loads are heavy, these activities are carried out using material handling equipment and vehicles, such as pallet jacks, hand trucks or wheelbarrows, which workers pull or push using their own muscle power. If this type of load handling is not ergonomically designed, it can put excessive strain on the body and put workers' health at risk. The back, pelvis, shoulders, knees and cardiovascular system are often affected. Uncontrolled movement of loads can also increase the risk of accidents.

Identifying the risks of manual pushing and pulling in good time makes it possible to make workplaces and load handling safer, to take preventive measures and to prevent physical complaints.

This booklet provides guidance on how to use the multi-level Key Indicator Methods Inventory for a step-by-step risk assessment of physical workloads in environments where loads are manually pushed and pulled.

Please download the complete brochure "Manual Pulling and Pushing of Loads" (in German only).