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Health and Safety Executive issues baggage handling advice

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has said basic baggage handling equipment should be used to avoid aviation industry workers suffering from musculoskeletal disorders (MSD).

By using mechanical equipment rather than handling baggage manually workers are less at risk of injury.

Head of HSE's transportation and safety unit Nick Ratty said cost issues sometimes meant equipment was not used, ignoring health and safety advice.

Mr Ratty added that manual handling should be avoided when possible.

He said: "New technology includes more sophisticated extending belt loaders, which convey bags right into the aircraft hold and would significantly reduce MSD risks."

The HSE plans to reduce the risk to workers by continuing to offer health and safety advice to the industry.

Earlier this year, airport services company Aviance UK was fined £90,000 and ordered to pay costs of £18,800 after a man died due to health and safety failures.

A vehicle fell on Mohammed Taj at Heathrow Airport in March 2008 after a trolley jack collapsed.

Quantum Risk Management are a leading Health and Safety Consultancy

Posted on 12/02/2010

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