Manual handling is one of the most common causes of workplace injuries in the UK. Employees across many industries regularly lift, carry, push, pull or move loads as part of their daily work. Without suitable planning and safe working practices, these activities can lead to injuries affecting the back, muscles, joints and other parts of the body.
Manual handling injuries can affect workers in warehouses, offices, retail, construction, healthcare, manufacturing and many other sectors.
This guide explains what manual handling injuries are, why they occur, common workplace risks, prevention measures and how manual handling fits within workplace first aid and health and safety management.
This information is general guidance and should not be considered legal advice.
Manual handling refers to transporting or supporting a load using physical effort.
This may include:
Manual handling does not only involve heavy objects. Repetitive movements, awkward postures and poorly designed workstations can also contribute to injury.
Manual handling can affect many different parts of the body.
| Injury | Common Cause |
|---|---|
| Back strain | Lifting heavy or awkward loads |
| Muscle strain | Overexertion or repetitive lifting |
| Sprains | Twisting while carrying loads |
| Shoulder injuries | Lifting above shoulder height |
| Knee injuries | Poor lifting technique |
| Hand injuries | Poor grip or dropped loads |
Some injuries develop suddenly, while others occur gradually through repeated physical strain over time.
Manual handling risks can affect almost any workplace, but some industries involve more frequent lifting and carrying activities.
Examples include:
Related guides:
Manual handling injuries are often caused by several factors rather than a single event.
Contributing factors may include:
Employers should consider manual handling risks when carrying out workplace risk assessments.
A risk assessment may consider:
See Workplace First Aid Risk Assessment.
Many manual handling injuries can be reduced through good planning and appropriate control measures.
Examples include:
Although every lifting task is different, general good practice includes:
The appropriate response depends on the type and severity of the injury.
Minor strains or sprains may require rest and assessment, while more serious injuries may require urgent medical attention.
Employees should avoid continuing work if they believe an injury has occurred.
Related guide:
First Aid for Sprains, Strains & Soft Tissue Injuries.
Emergency medical assistance may be required if someone:
See When to Call 999 vs 111 vs GP.
Manual handling incidents should be reported in accordance with workplace procedures.
Even near misses can help identify hazards before injuries occur.
Related guides:
Employers should consider manual handling risks as part of their overall health and safety arrangements.
This may include suitable risk assessments, supervision, workplace design, training and reviewing incidents to help prevent future injuries.
Manual handling injuries remain one of the most common causes of workplace ill health and lost working time. Understanding the risks, improving workplace planning and encouraging safe working practices can help reduce injuries and improve workplace safety.
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