Identifying Hazards in Material Handling to Prevent Injuries

Every day, millions of workers around the world handle materials as part of their job. From lifting heavy boxes in warehouses to transferring chemicals in factories, material handling is a routine yet critical part of many workplaces. But when not done correctly, it becomes a significant source of injuries and long-term health problems. Understanding the risks and recognizing the hidden dangers in day-to-day tasks can make a huge difference. Whether you're a business owner, a safety officer, or a worker on the floor, knowing how to identify and manage these hazards is essential to keeping everyone safe. Why Material Handling Hazards Should Never Be Ignored Let’s start with a simple scenario: Imagine you’re helping a coworker stack boxes in a storeroom. You're in a hurry, and instead of using a trolley, you decide to carry the boxes yourself. It feels manageable at first. But suddenly, you feel a sharp pull in your lower back. That minor lapse in judgment could lead to months of...