1. Back Injuries
Back injuries are the most frequent and well-known type of manual handling injury. These typically result from:
- Lifting heavy loads incorrectly
- Twisting or reaching while lifting
- Repetitive bending or overstretching
Injuries can range from muscle strain and ligament sprain to more serious conditions like herniated discs and chronic lower back pain. Poor posture and lack of proper training are often contributing factors.
2. Upper Limb Disorders (ULDs)
Upper limb disorders, including injuries to the shoulders, arms, elbows, wrists, and hands, are also extremely common. These may result from:
- Repetitive tasks
- Sustained awkward postures
- Forceful or jerky movements
Conditions such as repetitive strain injury (RSI), tendonitis, and carpal tunnel syndrome often fall under this category. These injuries typically develop over time and are common in jobs involving constant or repetitive manual tasks.
3. Muscle Strains and Soft Tissue Injuries
Muscle strains and other soft tissue injuries occur when muscles, ligaments, or tendons are overstretched or torn during manual handling. These often affect the:
- Neck
- Legs
- Abdomen
They are commonly caused by lifting, pushing, pulling, or carrying objects that are too heavy or awkward, especially when done without proper technique.
Conclusion:
The three most common types of manual handling injuries—back injuries, upper limb disorders, and soft tissue strains—are preventable with the right training, equipment, and safety practices. Employers have a duty to reduce these risks through proper manual handling training, ergonomic assessments, and risk-reduction strategies.
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