Manual Handling- The Facts
Every year a significant proportion of all injuries at work are caused by manual handling. In some cases, the injuries caused through manual handling are permanent.
What does the law say?
Employers must comply with the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 to control and reduce the risk of injury from manual handling. The employer should assess all manual handling activities to try and avoid them where they can and provide mechanical aids where possible.
Prior to the Coronavirus Pandemic, the rate of self-reported work-related musculoskeletal disorders showed a generally downward trend. In 2020/21 the rate was broadly similar to the 2018/19 pre coronavirus levels.
Manual handling, awkward or tiring positions, keyboard work & repetitive action were estimated to be the main causes of work-related musculoskeletal disorders prior to the pandemic.
In 2020/21 the effects of the coronavirus pandemic were also found to be a contributory factor to work-related musculoskeletal disorders.
Things to consider
Is Manual Handling covered in your Workplace Risk Assessment?
Are your workforce suitably trained in moving and handling?
What are your typical ‘loads’? – Size, weight, material, shape?
Can you reduce load weights, sizes or distance to travel?
Do tasks involve repetitive twisting, bending, pushing or pulling?
Can stooping/bending be eliminated by lifting loads mechanically?
Health & Safety Statistics
1.7 million Workers suffering from work-related ill health (new or long-standing) in 2020/21
0.5 million Workers suffering from work-related musculoskeletal disorders (new or long-standing) in 2020/21
162,000 Workers suffering from a new case of work-related musculoskeletal disorder in 2020/21
In Court
In 2017 a worker’s fingers were crushed and two of which later needed to be partially amputated as a result of the injuries sustained when he and his colleagues attempted to lift a metal frame weighing approx. 250kgs.
Investigations found that this was not an isolated occurrence and no efforts had been made to avoid manual handling or assess the risks to reduce the likelihood of injury.
The company were found to be in breach of Regulation 4(1) (b) of the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 and was fined £20,000 and ordered to pay £884.00 costs.
Ensuring safe working conditions is essential for the well-being of employees. By complying with regulations, assessing risks, and providing proper training, employers can prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders. These statistics highlight the importance of addressing known issue, especially considering the added challenges posed by the pandemic. Let's prioritise manual handling safety in our workplaces to protect our employees and create a healthier work environment.
More information, provided by the HSE can be found here
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