Pre-Task Plan: Material Handling

Date: [DATE] Work Area: [WORK AREA] Task Supervisor: [SUPERVISOR NAME]

1. Task Description

[Handling and moving materials within the work area, including loading, unloading, and storage.]

2. Task Duration

Estimated Start: [START TIME] Estimated Completion: [END TIME]

3. Personnel Involved

• [ROLE 1: Material Handler]
• [ROLE 2: Equipment Operator]
• [ROLE 3: Spotter/Signaller]

4. Task-Specific Hazards and Controls

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Manual lifting	Musculoskeletal injuries (strains, sprains)	Use proper lifting techniques, get assistance for heavy loads, use mechanical aids where possible [1].
Slips, trips, and falls	Injuries from falls	Keep aisles and passageways clear of obstructions [2], ensure good housekeeping practices [2], and wear appropriate footwear.
Falling materials	Injuries from falling objects	Stack materials securely to prevent sliding or collapse [3], do not exceed safe load limits of floors [3], and use appropriate PPE such as hard hats.
Equipment operation (forklifts, etc.)	Collisions, struck-by injuries	Ensure equipment is inspected before use [4], operators are trained and authorized, and maintain safe distances from pedestrians. Use spotters where visibility is limited.
Hazardous materials	Exposure to harmful substances	Ensure proper labeling and storage of hazardous materials [5], use appropriate PPE (gloves, respirators), and follow SDS guidelines.
Rolling Materials	Crushing injuries	Stack and block cylindrical materials to prevent spreading, tilting, or rolling [6].
Unguarded machinery	Amputation, Laceration	Ensure all machinery is properly guarded [7].

5. Required PPE for Today's Task

• Hard hat
• Safety glasses
• Safety boots
• Gloves (appropriate for materials being handled)
• High-visibility vest

6. Tools and Equipment Needed

• [Tool/Equipment 1: Forklift/Hand Truck]
• [Tool/Equipment 2: Pallet Jack]
• [Tool/Equipment 3: Straps/Chains/Slings]

7. Pre-Start Checklist

Area Preparation

• Clear and mark aisles and passageways [2].
• Ensure adequate lighting in the work area.
• Check floor load limits and ensure they are not exceeded [3].

Equipment Checks

• Inspect rigging equipment for defects before use [4].
• Verify forklift/pallet jack is in good working condition.
• Ensure all equipment has legible identification markings [4].

Communication

• Review task-specific hazards and controls with all personnel.
• Establish hand signals or radio communication for equipment operation.

8. Task Steps Overview

1. Assess the load and plan the lift.
2. Use appropriate lifting techniques or equipment.
3. Ensure clear communication during material movement.
4. Secure materials properly during storage.
5. Maintain clear aisles and passageways.

9. Emergency Response for This Task

• Material falling → Clear the area and assess injuries; provide first aid.
• Equipment malfunction → Stop operation, secure the area, and report the issue.

10. Task-Specific Precautions

• Never exceed the safe working load of equipment [4].
• Do not work under suspended loads [6].
• Stay alert and aware of surroundings.

Pre-Task Briefing Confirmation

All workers understand the task, associated hazards, and required controls.

Team Lead Initials: [___] Date: [DATE] Time: [TIME]

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