Overview

Framework:
RQF
Level:
Level 2
Unit No:
A/617/5716
Credits:
3
Guided learning hours:
24 hours

Aim

The aim of this unit is to provide learners with an understanding of ways in which to handle and move goods using equipment in a safe and controlled way.

Unit Learning Outcomes

1

Understand using equipment to handle and move goods.

  • Factors
    Capability of the MHE; the type of good; working environmental; level of training in the use of MHE; availability of protective equipment; location of good (high up, low down); weight; distance to move; cost of using the MHE.
  • Importance
    Prevent injury to people; prevent accidents prevent damage to goods; prevent loss of production; reduce sickness rate; reduce costs (compensation, training, investment).
  • PUWER
    Require risks to people from equipment to be prevented or controlled; applies to all equipment from hand tools to complex machinery; ensure equipment is suitable and safe; ensure equipment is maintained in a safe condition;
    Ensure equipment is inspected; ensure users are adequately trained; ensure used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.

Assessment Criteria

  • 1.1

    Explain the factors which need to be considered when using materials handling equipment (MHE).

  • 1.2

    Explain why using appropriate MHE is important to the individual and the organisation.

  • 1.3

    Explain why using appropriate MHE is important to the individual and the organisation.


2

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

Hazards

  • Applicable to conventional, oversized, overweight and hazardous goods - slippery surfaces; insecure load; poor lighting; working at heights; blocked aisles; poor maintenance of equipment; lack of correct signage; falling from equipment; contact with overhead cables; unmanaged traffic flow; excessive noise; level of training.
  • Applicable to;
    ~ Oversized and overweight goods – lack of vision; loss of control; unbalanced and unstable; difficult to reach.
    ~ Hazardous goods – lack of electric isolation; incorrect special to type container; insufficient sealing of containers; incorrect selection of MHE; incorrect use of MHE.

Assessment Criteria

  • 2.1

    Describe the hazards and risks associated with using MHE to handle and move:

    • conventional goods
    • oversized and overweight goods
    • hazardous goods

3

Understand risk assessments when using equipment to handle and move goods.

  • Risk assessment process
    Identify the hazards – determine who could be harmed – evaluate risks – determine control measures – record findings – implement finding – review and update
  • Factors
    The task which is to be performed; the environment in which the task takes place; the serviceability of the MHE; availability and use of support equipment (e.g. strops); operator’s level of training; type of good to be moved.
  • Preventing injuries
    Risk assessments identify if adequately training is in place; if correct protective equipment is made available; if correct MHE are being used; if individuals are complying with relevant organisational policies and procedures; if the work space is clean and tidy; if individuals consider their own safety.
  • Reduce hazards and risks
    Employers and employees can take precautions to prevent damage, harm or loss; risks will be monitored; could encourage the redesign tasks; will ensure adequate supervision of staff; encourage adjustment to storage areas to minimise handling and movement; ensure MHE is maintained, serviced and tested regularly; ensure correct safety certificates are displayed; introduce adequate control measures and protocols.

Assessment Criteria

  • 3.1

    Outline the process for conducting a risk assessment.

  • 3.2

    Explain the factors which need to be considered when conducting a risk assessment related to using MHE.

  • 3.3

    Explain how a risk assessment could be used to help prevent injuries and reduce hazards and risks when using MHE.


4

Know how to use equipment to handle and move goods safely and effectively.

  • Preparing to handle or move goods
    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 good (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 – use support equipment if available
    Step 7 – seek assistance if required (e.g. a banksman)
  • Handling and moving goods
    Refer to other learning outcomes. Learners are to consolidate their prior learning for the two remaining assessment criteria.

Assessment Criteria

  • 4.1

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

  • 4.2

    Show how to move goods safely and effectively using MHE.