Australia Model Code of Practice: Hazardous Manual Tasks 4.1: 4.1 Have regard to all contributing matters and apply the hierarchy of control (r 60(2))

In managing risk the PCBU must have regard to all relevant matters that may contribute to a disorder, including postures, movements, forces and vibration, the duration and frequency of the task, workplace environmental conditions, the design of the work area, the layout of the workplace, the systems of work, and the nature, size, weight or number of persons, animals or things handled (r 60(2)). The hierarchy applies: always aim first to eliminate, ideally by not introducing the hazard, which is often cheaper at the planning or design stage (see the Principles of Good Work Design handbook), though it may be impracticable if it prevents making the product or delivering the service; otherwise minimise by substitution, isolation or engineering controls aimed at the frequency, magnitude and duration of movements, forces and postures by changing the work area, tool, load, environment, method of handling or the way work is organised; then administrative controls only for remaining risk or as interim or supplementary measures; then PPE. Examples include automating the task, delivering goods directly to the point of use, lighter or smaller items, power tools, handling by mechanical means, isolating vibrating machinery, mechanical lifting aids and trolleys, adjustable workstations, job rotation, lifting procedures and PPE such as heat-resistant gloves.