All employers in the UK have a duty to protect workers from the risks of manually handling loads. Incorrect handling techniques can lead to a range of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), which may affect the joints, legs, arms, or lower back. It is estimated that 40% of all work-related illnesses are related to MSDs.

While not all of these illnesses are directly caused by manual handling at work, they may be made worse by poor practice in the workplace, leading to higher rates of sickness absence and lost productivity. Employers and managers have a responsibility to prevent and minimise the risk factors.

They must comply with the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992, as amended by the Health and Safety (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2002. Here are some of the main points to bear in mind.

Avoid the need for manual handling

The guidelines state that the need for hazardous manual handling should be avoided ‘so far as is reasonably practicable’. For example, automation or mechanisation may be introduced for the lifting and moving of loads. This could be through the introduction of powered conveyors, forklift trucks, lifting tables, or service and goods lifts.

Carry out a risk assessment

If it is not possible to avoid manually lifting or handling loads, a full risk assessment should be carried out. The Health and Safety Executive provides full guidelines and tools on how to produce a ‘suitable and sufficient’ assessment that complies with the regulations. Steps should be taken to minimise any risks that are identified.

Train staff and listen to feedback

Staff should be fully aware of the manual handling risks in the workplace and should be trained in identifying, managing, and controlling risk. Employees should be encouraged to give feedback, consulted and listened to as they are best placed to know the day to day nature of the work and the particular challenges of the working environment.

Information should be collected on the size, weight and shape of loads and how often they are handled, and any issues such as awkward spaces, difficult access to  shelving, or uneven flooring.

Teach good handling techniques

It is important to train staff in the correct techniques for manual handling loads. However, this should not be seen as a substitute for putting other measures in place such as providing lifting aids, reducing the need for repetitive actions, and ensuring that the workplace is as safe as it reasonably can be for carrying out manual handling tasks.

Basic precautions should be taken when lifting loads. These include using both hands, lifting the load in front of and close to the body, and avoiding twisting. Stand with the feet apart and one leg forwards to increase stability, and look ahead rather than down at the load.

Before the lift takes place, check that the surface where it will be placed is free from obstructions. If the load is being lifted from the floor to shoulder height, it may be necessary to provide a mid-point resting place such as a bench. If the load is unreasonably heavy, assistance should be sought. 

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