Materials Handling and Storage

Materials Handling and Storage

• Includes the art of lifting, placing, storing, or moving materials through physical strength or appropriate handling equipment
• Classified into two types: manual materials handling and mechanical materials handling

Manual Materials Handling (MMH)

• Involves moving or handling materials by lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, carrying, holding, or restraining using one's physical strength
• Most common cause of occupational fatigue, low back pain, and lower back injuries
• Risks associated with MMH: strains, sprains, wounds, fractures, and hernias
• Importance of stopping to think before lifting a load and considering safer alternatives

Protective Clothing for MMH

• Wear: lightweight, flexible, tear and puncture-resistant clothing, safety boots with toe caps and slip-resistant soles, and protective gloves
• Avoid: aprons, coats, clothing with exposed buttons, zippers or loose flaps, and heavy-duty mitts

Mechanical Materials Handling

• Involves the use of rigid, manually or mechanically-powered equipment for handling bulky and heavy items
• Manually powered equipment reduces physical effort, making materials handling easier and safer

Tips for Using Mechanical Aids

• Check for the availability of mechanical aids before lifting or moving loads
• Only operate equipment if trained to use it
• Keep equipment in good operating condition
• Select the right equipment to complete the task
• Use specialized equipment for specific tasks or objects

Learn about the techniques and classifications of materials handling, including manual and mechanical methods, and the importance of proper handling and storage. Test your knowledge of the different types of materials handling and their applications. Improve your skills in this important aspect of logistics and supply chain management.