Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety
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Home > OSH Answers > Ergonomics > Manual Materials Handling (MMH)
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Why and how should levers be used?
Using levers reduces the force required to handle materials and avoids bending and stooping.
- Use a steel bar to shift an object horizontally.
- Use the lever and rollers to move a load horizontally.
- Use rollers on an angle to change the direction of the load.
- Use "Come-Alongs" to move heavy load. Ensure load is fully on the skid to prevent drag or resistance.
- Mount lever on wheels to assist in when moving load. Ensure that wheels can be locked.

Lever on a rolling platform lifts and moves objects.

Lever on wheels lifts and moves manhole covers.

Lever on wheels lists and moves coils.
- Use an extended handle to lift, shift or move objects without bending.
Document confirmed current on June 15, 2009
Document last updated on September 30, 2002
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