(in German)

The manual lifting, holding, and carrying of loads weighing ≥ 3 kg is a frequently occurring type of workload to which the human body is only inadequately adapted. By imposing motor/biomechanical stress on the back, it can result in premature wear and tear to the musculoskeletal system, the lumbar region in particular. Musculoskeletal disorders like back pain or pain in the extremities may be caused or exacerbated by the manual lifting, holding, and carrying of loads and even lead to incapacity for work. The consequences of these activities may also include excessive strain on the cardiovascular system due to the significant physical workload involved, placing a metabolic load on the whole organism.

This brochure explains how risks are assessed using the multilevel Key Indicator Methods (KIM). It serves as guidance for workplace practitioners such as managers, those responsible for work design, employee representative bodies, occupational safety and health specialists, and company doctors. Risks attributable to the manual lifting, holding, or carrying of loads ≥ 3 kg can consequently be identified, workplaces designed appropriately, and musculoskeletal disorders prevented.

Please download the complete brochure "Manual lifting, holding, and carrying - Risk assessment using the key indicator method" (in German only).