We're sorry, but OSHAcademy doesn't work properly without JavaScript enabled. Please turn on JavaScript or install a browser that supports Javascript.

502 EM 385-1-1 Sections 14-19
Skip to main content

SECTION 14 MATERIAL HANDLING, STORAGE AND DISPOSAL

14.A Material Handling.

14.A.01 Employees must be trained in and must use safe lifting techniques. > See Section 6.K.

Ensure suitable material handling devices are available.

14.A.02 Requirements for PPE are covered in Section 5.

14.A.03 Material handling devices must be available and used for the material handling needs of an activity.

Hierarchy of Controls

14.A.04 Whenever heavy or bulky material is to be moved, the material handling needs must be evaluated in terms of weight, size, distance, and path of movement. The following hierarchy must be followed in selecting a means for material handling:

  1. Elimination of material handling needs via engineering solutions;
  2. Movement by mechanical device (e.g., lift truck, overhead crane, or conveyor);
  3. Movement by manual means with handling aid (e.g., dollie or cart); or
  4. Movement using safe lifting techniques. > See NIOSH, "Work Practices Guide for Manual Lifting".

14.A.05 Materials will not be moved over or suspended above personnel unless positive precautions have been taken to protect the personnel from falling objects.

14.A.06 Where the movement of materials may be hazardous to persons, taglines or other devices must be used to control the loads being handled by hoisting equipment. These devices must be nonconductive when used near energized lines.

14.A.07 Banding or strapping must not be used as rigging to hoist loads of bundled materials.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

14-1. Which of the following controls is the highest priority when selecting a means for material handling?