manual handling
The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992, as amended in
2002, apply to many manual handling activities including lifting,
pushing, pulling and carrying.
Manual handling injuries can be sustained at almost all
workplaces – offices, factories, farms, building sites and
hospitals to name a few. Heavy labour, maintaining an awkward
posture and poor ergonomic positioning, can all contribute to both
musculoskeletal and other disorders in employees themselves and, in
some cases, in injury to others.
In 2006, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) issued a
warning to care homes in relation to their manual handling
practices. This followed a decision in the Aberdale Magistrates
Court to fine and order legal costs against a care home provider
when a resident suffered a broken arm while being lifted by staff.
The care home provider pleaded guilty to charges under the Health
and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.
The Regulations require employers to avoid the need for
hazardous manual handling and in all cases to assess the risk of
such handling where it is necessary. Employers are under a duty to
reduce the risk of hazardous manual handling as far as this is
possible. Employees too have duties to follow guidance and systems
devised for their safety and the safety of others. Training is
clearly key and as a minimum should cover issues such as
ergonomics, manual handling techniques, back care, mechanical
handling aids, and fitness.
The HSE has produced the helpful guide ‘Getting to grips with
manual handling’, which explains the problems associated with
manual handling and sets out best practice in dealing with them.
Click on the link to view a copy of the 'Getting to grips with
manual handling' guide.
For more information, please contact John
Mitchell, head of Blake Lapthorn solicitors' Health
and Safety team on 023 8085 7231 or
john.mitchell@bllaw.co.uk.
