Final answer:
Risk factors in manual handling activities include ignoring safety guidelines and encouraging unsafe practices, which increase the likelihood of accidents. Proper training and equipment are crucial in reducing these risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
Manual handling activities are associated with certain risk factors that can lead to workplace injuries. These can be influenced by several conditions including ignoring safety guidelines, which increases the likelihood of accidents. In contrast, providing proper training and equipment can significantly reduce these risks. It's also critical to recognize that behaviors such as juggling objects during handling or encouraging unsafe practices play a part in amplifying the potential for harm.
Manual handling involves lifting, carrying, moving, pushing, or pulling loads, and it is a common cause of workplace injuries when proper procedures are not followed. Consequently, understanding and applying ergonomic principles, using appropriate safety equipment, and adhering to safety protocols are essential for minimizing the risks associated with manual handling.