Manual Handling Injuries in the Workplace

Manual handling injuries account for approximately 17% of all non-fatal workplace injuries in the UK. These injuries occur when workers lift, carry, push, pull, or move objects, often resulting in musculoskeletal disorders, back injuries, and repetitive strain conditions. While some injuries may heal with rest and treatment, others can cause chronic pain and long-term mobility issues, leading to significant time off work and financial losses.

Common Causes of Manual Handling Injuries

Manual handling injuries often result from poor working practices, lack of training, and unsafe work environments. The most common causes include:

• Lifting heavy or awkwardly shaped loads without proper technique or assistance.
• Repetitive movements, particularly twisting, bending, or overreaching.
• Inadequate manual handling training, leading to incorrect posture or excessive strain.
• Lack of lifting equipment, such as trolleys or hoists, forcing employees to handle loads manually.
• Poor workplace design, with confined spaces or obstacles making safe movement difficult.

Employer Responsibilities Under UK Law

Employers have a legal duty under the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 to:

• Assess manual handling risks and take steps to eliminate or reduce them.
• Provide appropriate equipment (e.g., hoists, lifting aids) to reduce the need for manual handling.
• Ensure employees receive proper training on safe lifting techniques.
• Improve workplace design to allow safe handling of loads.

Failure to comply with these responsibilities can result in legal liability if an employee suffers a workplace injury due to negligence or inadequate safety measures.

Steps to Take After a Manual Handling Injury

If you have suffered a manual handling injury at work, taking the right steps can protect both your health and legal rights:

• Seek medical attention: some injuries develop over time, so early diagnosis is crucial.
• Report the incident to your employer and ensure it is recorded in the workplace accident book.
• Gather evidence: take photographs of the work environment, record witness statements, and document unsafe conditions.
• Keep a record of expenses: this includes medical costs, loss of earnings, and any rehabilitation expenses.
• Seek legal advice: we can assess whether you have grounds for a compensation claim.

Claiming Compensation for Manual Handling Injuries

If your injury was caused by unsafe working conditions, inadequate training, or employer negligence, you may be entitled to compensation.

Making a Claim Can Help You Recover Losses Such As:

• Medical and Rehabilitation Costs
  This includes expenses for hospital treatment, GP appointments, physiotherapy, counselling, and any other medical or therapeutic support needed as a result of your injury.
• Out-of-Pocket Expenses
  These may include the cost of damaged personal items (such as clothing or mobile phones), travel to and from medical appointments, parking fees, or assistance with daily living during recovery.
• Loss of Earnings
  If your injury has caused you to take time off work—whether short-term or long-term—you may be entitled to recover lost income. This can include loss of bonuses, overtime, or future earning potential if your ability to work has been affected.
• Pain, Suffering, and Loss of Amenity
  Compensation may also be awarded for the physical and emotional pain you’ve experienced, as well as the wider impact on your day-to-day life, hobbies, relationships, and overall quality of life.

The amount of compensation awarded depends on the severity of the injury and the financial losses incurred.

Preventing Manual Handling Injuries

Both employers and employees play a role in preventing manual handling injuries.

Employers should:

• Implement effective risk assessments and remove unnecessary manual handling tasks.
• Provide suitable lifting equipment and encourage its use.
• Ensure all workers receive manual handling training tailored to their tasks.

Employees should:

• Follow safe lifting techniques and avoid handling excessive loads alone.
• Use equipment provided rather than lifting manually.
• Report any unsafe practices or hazards to their employer.

Conclusion

Manual handling injuries are one of the leading causes of workplace absences in the UK, but they are largely preventable. Employers must take proactive steps to reduce risks, while employees should ensure they follow safe working practices.

If you have suffered a manual handling injury at work, you may be entitled to compensation. Seeking expert legal advice can help you understand your rights and recover the losses associated with your injury. Contact our team today to find out how we can assist you.