1. What Is Manual Handling?
Manual handling refers to the lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling of loads by hand or bodily force. Common in industries like construction, warehousing, healthcare, and retail, manual handling tasks can lead to serious injuries when performed incorrectly or without proper training.
Employers have a legal duty under the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 to minimise risks and provide appropriate training.
2. Lower Back Injuries
Lower back injuries are by far the most common manual handling injuries. They typically result from:
- Lifting heavy objects incorrectly
- Repetitive bending or twisting motions
- Sudden movements while carrying loads
These injuries can range from strains and sprains to long-term disc damage or chronic pain conditions like sciatica.
3. Shoulder Strains and Tears
Manual handling can put a lot of stress on the shoulders, especially when:
- Reaching above head height
- Carrying heavy or uneven loads
- Lifting in awkward positions
Torn rotator cuffs, tendonitis, and muscle strains are common injuries that may require rest, physiotherapy, or surgery in severe cases.
4. Knee Injuries
Knee injuries often occur when lifting involves squatting or kneeling, or when the body is placed under uneven pressure. These may include:
- Torn ligaments or cartilage (e.g., meniscus tears)
- Strains from improper posture
- Worsening of pre-existing knee conditions
Knee damage can significantly affect mobility and work capacity.
5. Wrist and Hand Injuries
Handling awkward or slippery objects can lead to wrist and hand injuries, such as:
- Sprains and strains
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs)
These injuries are common in roles requiring repetitive lifting or fine hand movements under strain.
6. Neck and Upper Back Injuries
Poor posture during lifting or twisting can lead to neck and upper back strain. Symptoms include:
- Muscle tightness or spasms
- Limited neck mobility
- Headaches or numbness in arms
These injuries are often linked to improper lifting technique and lack of breaks or support.
7. Hernias
A hernia occurs when internal tissue pushes through a weak spot in a muscle, often caused by:
- Heavy or sudden lifting
- Straining beyond physical limits
Manual handling increases the risk, especially if protective techniques aren’t followed. Hernias may require surgery and a long recovery period.
8. Foot and Toe Injuries
Injuries to feet and toes happen when:
- Heavy objects are dropped
- Workers aren’t provided with or wearing safety footwear
- Manual handling is performed in cluttered or uneven environments
Crush injuries, sprains, and fractures are common in warehouse, factory, and delivery work settings.
Preventing Manual Handling Injuries
Employers should:
- Provide manual handling training
- Conduct risk assessments
- Use lifting aids or machinery when possible
- Ensure correct lifting techniques are taught and followed
- Encourage regular breaks and rotation of tasks
Employees should:
- Know their lifting limits
- Ask for help when needed
- Use proper techniques (straight back, bent knees)
- Report unsafe conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the most common injury from manual handling?
Lower back injuries are the most frequent due to poor lifting posture and heavy loads.
2. Can I claim compensation for a manual handling injury?
Yes, if the injury was due to employer negligence, such as lack of training or unsafe working conditions.
3. Do I need to be in a physical job to suffer a manual handling injury?
No. Even light-duty roles can involve repetitive strain or poor posture leading to injury.
4. How do I report a manual handling injury?
Notify your employer immediately and ensure it’s recorded in the workplace accident book.
5. What laws protect me from manual handling risks?
The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 and the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
6. How long do I have to claim for a manual handling injury?
Generally, three years from the date of the injury or the date you became aware it was work-related.
Conclusion
Understanding the most common manual handling injuries helps prevent harm and promotes a safer workplace. Whether it’s back pain from lifting or wrist strain from repetitive tasks, proper training, awareness, and safe practices are essential. If you’ve been injured due to poor workplace safety, you may be entitled to compensation—so don’t hesitate to seek advice and support.
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