Using Equipment to Handle and Move Goods

Know about using equipment to handle and move goods. 

• When to use MHE
  Unloading vehicles; loading vehicles; picking stock; putting stock into storage; moving stock from one area to another.
• Types of MHE
  Mechanical equipment used to handle, move, store and protect goods within storage and distribution facility.
  Pallet truck; fork-lift truck; reach truck; sack truck; conveyors; hoists; cranes; pallets, cherry pickers; hand truck; platform truck; tractor-trailer; automated guided vehicles.

Assessment Criteria

• 1.1

  Outline different situations where materials handling equipment (MHE) is used to handle and move goods. 

• 1.2

  Outline different situations where materials handling equipment (MHE) is used to handle and move goods. 

Know about the hazards and risks associated with using equipment to handle and move goods.

• Hazards
  Slippery surfaces; seasonal trip hazards; poor lighting; items falling from heights; working at heights; spills; blocked aisles; equipment failure; lack of correct signage; damage to racking; falling from vehicle; faulty equipment; incorrect use of MHE; unmanaged traffic flow; lack of training.

• Risks
  Poor working conditions; long working hours; poor job design; insufficient/inappropriate MHE; working when sick or injured; insufficient supervision; lack of training.

Assessment Criteria

• 2.1

  Outline the key hazards associated with using MHE. 

• 2.2

  Outline the common risks associated with using MHE.

Know how to prevent injuries from using equipment to handle and move goods.

• Preventing injuries;
  - Employees
  Ensure adequately trained; use correct protective equipment; use correct equipment; seek assistance if required; keep healthy, fit and strong; comply with relevant organisational policies and procedures; clean and tidy work space.
  - Employers
  Conduct risk assessments; take precautions to prevent damage, harm or loss; monitor risks; provide suitable training; provide suitable protective equipment; redesign tasks; supervise staff; provide appropriate MHE for each task.

• Risk assessment
  Identify the hazards – determine who could be harmed – evaluate risks – determine control measures – record findings – implement finding – review and update

Assessment Criteria

• 3.1

  Outline ways in which employers and employees can help prevent injuries from using MHE.

• 3.2

  Outline ways in which employers and employees can help prevent injuries from using MHE.

Know how to use equipment to handle and move goods.

• Preparing to use MHE
  Step 1 – assess the risks in the area of work
  Step 2 – ensure the working area and/or route is clear of risks and hazards
  Step 3 – understand the characteristics of the goods (e.g. size, weight, content)
  Step 4 – select, obtain and use correct protective equipment
  Step 5 – select the most appropriate MHE to use
  Step 6 – seek assistance if required
• Using MHE
  Refer to other learning outcomes. Learners are to consolidate their prior learning for this assessment criteria.

Assessment Criteria

• 4.1

  Show how to prepare for using MHE to handle and move goods.

• 4.2

  Show how to handle and move goods safely and effectively using MHE.