Kerb laying by hand involves a serious risk of injury to those who are doing the work and therefore employers need to take action to control this risk. When tackling the risk, the best solutions will be those which address all three main hazards: the weight of the kerb; the repetitive nature of the operation; and poor posture during work. To help find the best solution, the following `hierarchy of control measures' is suggested. You should try to adopt the solutions nearest the top of the hierarchy first, as these will give the best level of risk control.

Hierarchy Control Measures

Elimination - Eliminate manual lifting of kerbs at the design stage.

Total Mechanical - ensure kerbs are always handled and laid mechanically (e.g. using mechanical grabs). This is the preferred solution for new - build, reimbursement works and work involving the use of large, special purpose kerbs.

Partial Mechanical - ensure that the maximum amount of the kerb handling process is undertaken mechanically (e.g. using mechanical solutions to get the kerb near its final position, off - loading using a hoist, etc). Using smaller/lighter kerbs or handling aids will further reduce the risks from any residual manual handling.

Manual Handling - in rare cases where it is not possible to use any of the above solutions, short stretches of kerb may be laid manually. Where this is necessary, workers should be trained in good handling techniques. The use of lighter weight kerbs or devices that allow two people to share the lift will reduce the risk of injury.