Manual handling assessment chart
Manual handling injuries are work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), which are the most common type of occupational ill health in the UK, and are a particular problem in the construction industry.
Manual handling assessment charts (MAC) were originally designed to help the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and local authority inspectors assess risks in the workplace, in accordance with the Manual Handling Operations Regulations (MHOR). They are now used within the workplace to help identify manual handling activities that could pose a high level of risk.
MACs use a numerical and colour-coding score system to help employers and safety inspectors accurately assess risks posed by manual handling activities, and to understand and categorise the level of risk.
They allow assessment of:
- Lifting operations.
- Carrying operations.
- Team handling operations.
They include a flow chart for each type of handling which progresses through each factor of the manual handling operation step-by-step. At each step, the user is able to evaluate and apportion a grade to the degree of risk. An assessment guide then helps with the scoring of each task.
It is important to note that use of MACs is not a substitute for a full risk assessment, as it is not appropriate for all manual handling operations, and risk assessments should take account of other information such as individual capabilities.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
A case study and a warning to would-be developers
Creating four dwellings... after half a century of doing this job, why, oh why, is it so difficult?
Reform of the fire engineering profession
Fire Engineers Advisory Panel: Authoritative Statement, reactions and next steps.
Restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster
A complex project of cultural significance from full decant to EMI, opportunities and a potential a way forward.
Apprenticeships and the responsibility we share
Perspectives from the CIOB President as National Apprentice Week comes to a close.
The first line of defence against rain, wind and snow.
Building Safety recap January, 2026
What we missed at the end of last year, and at the start of this...
National Apprenticeship Week 2026, 9-15 Feb
Shining a light on the positive impacts for businesses, their apprentices and the wider economy alike.
Applications and benefits of acoustic flooring
From commercial to retail.
From solid to sprung and ribbed to raised.
Strengthening industry collaboration in Hong Kong
Hong Kong Institute of Construction and The Chartered Institute of Building sign Memorandum of Understanding.
A detailed description from the experts at Cornish Lime.
IHBC planning for growth with corporate plan development
Grow with the Institute by volunteering and CP25 consultation.
Connecting ambition and action for designers and specifiers.
Electrical skills gap deepens as apprenticeship starts fall despite surging demand says ECA.
Built environment bodies deepen joint action on EDI
B.E.Inclusive initiative agree next phase of joint equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) action plan.
Recognising culture as key to sustainable economic growth
Creative UK Provocation paper: Culture as Growth Infrastructure.