05/20/2026
📦 Moving Safely Matters: May is Material & Manual Handling Month at Massilly! 📦
In May, we are shifting our Safe Observation focus to how we move everything across our operations - from a box in the warehouse to a simple stack of files in the office.
Back strains, repetitive injuries, and transport incidents rarely happen from one "big" mistake. Instead, they build up from small, unsafe habits repeated over time. That’s why how we move matters.
This month, our team is focusing on peer-to-peer observations with an eye on these key safe behaviours:
• The 50lb Rule: Is the team member following Massilly’s weight limit? Any load over 50lbs (22.7kg) must not be lifted alone. Ensure they are using a mechanical aid or a team lift. ⚖️
• The "Power Zone": For manual lifting, is the load being kept close to the body between the mid-thigh and mid-chest height? 🏋️♂️
• Neutral Spine: Is the team member bending at the knees and hips rather than rounding their back? 🦵
• Mechanical Aids & Equipment: Are team members using dollies, carts, or forklifts for heavy or awkward loads? When using equipment to transport material, ensure the load is balanced, secured, and kept at a safe travel height. 🚜
• Clear Paths: Before moving an object, is the team member checking that the route is free of trip hazards, debris, or pedestrians? 🧹
• Teamwork: Are they asking for a "team lift" when a manual task exceeds safe individual limits? 🤝
Your Responsibility to Act ⚠️
As a reminder, our 4-step process for a Safe Observation is:
1. Prepare 📝
2. Observe 👀
3. Communicate 🗣️
4. Take Action ✅
See something? Say something. When conducting observations, start by celebrating safe habits. But if you spot a hazard, take Immediate Action to stop and fix it. This is about protecting everyone, so they go home safely.
