Hazardous Manual Tasks (HMT)

An HMT involves lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, carrying, or otherwise moving, holding, or restraining any person, animal, or object. Such tasks can include repetitive or sustained force, sudden force, repetitive motion, sustained or awkward postures, and exposure to vibration. Stay alert! These hazards can stress your body and lead to injuries. 

Owners, managers, and workers share the responsibility to prevent HMT injuries. This includes assessing risks, identifying hazards, implementing control measures, and ensuring everyone follows health and safety regulations. Each workplace's unique environment demands tailored strategies to handle manual task hazards. 

HMT injuries can arise from lifting heavy items, performing repetitive tasks, using vibrating tools, over-reaching, and working in awkward postures. These actions may cause musculoskeletal disorders, nerve injuries, soft tissue hernias, or chronic pain.

Don't wait for injuries to happen. Actively identify potential HMT hazards and take necessary steps to reduce risks. Evaluate if heavy items need moving, if work involves awkward positions, or if tools and equipment can cause health issues due to weight or vibrations. Regular reviews and consultations with workers are crucial to maintaining a safe workplace.

Log into the NECA Member's Knowledge Base to download your Hazardous Manual Tasks (HMT) Toolkit.