Understanding Manual Handling Risks in the Workplace

Manual handling tasks are common in many workplaces. However, improper manual handling methods can lead to significant injuries and musculoskeletal disorders, which can severely impact employees' health and well-being.

Prevalence of Manual Handling Injuries

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) reports that manual handling is responsible for approximately 20% of all workplace injuries in the UK. These injuries can range from musculoskeletal disorders to sprains, strains, and fractures, resulting in substantial discomfort and pain for employees.

Common Injuries from Poor Manual Handling

The most frequent injuries caused by poor manual handling practices include musculoskeletal disorders, such as injuries to the back, neck, shoulders, and upper limbs. These injuries often stem from:

• Lifting heavy items
• Repetitive movements
• Awkward body postures

Such injuries can lead to long-term health issues that significantly affect an employee’s quality of life and work capacity.

Statistics and Impact

According to HSE data for the 2019-2020 period, there were 21,000 work-related musculoskeletal disorder cases reported under RIDDOR regulations. These cases resulted in an average of 17 days of absence per employee, which has substantial repercussions for businesses and the wider economy.