As workloads shift with the seasons, so do the risks we face. Now is a perfect time to reinforce safe manual handling practices and prevent musculoskeletal injuries across your team.
Whether you’re lifting, shifting, pushing, pulling, or simply standing for long hours—strains and sprains are the most common workplace injury in the UK. The good news? They’re also among the most preventable.
🤕 The Cost of “Just a Twinge”
We’ve all heard it: “It’s just a sore back—I’ll shake it off.” But injuries like:
- Pulled muscles
- Slipped discs
- Repetitive strain
- Shoulder or knee damage
…can develop into long-term health issues, affecting productivity, morale, and even careers.
Many of these injuries result from poor lifting techniques, rushing tasks, or using the wrong equipment.
🛠️ 5 Manual Handling Tips to Share with Your Team
- Assess before you lift
Is the load awkward, heavy, hot, or sharp?
Do you need help or mechanical support? - Plan your route
Clear trip hazards.
Know where you’re going and where you’re placing the load. - Use your legs, not your back
Bend your knees, keep your back straight, and lift smoothly.
Don’t twist—turn your whole body. - Don’t be a hero
Ask for help or use a trolley, pallet truck, or forklift.
Break heavier loads into smaller ones where possible. - Put it down safely
Mind your fingers!
Lower with control—don’t drop or jerk.
📋 Don’t Forget: Employer & Employee Responsibilities
Under the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992, employers must:
- Avoid hazardous manual handling where possible.
- Assess risks when it can’t be avoided.
- Reduce those risks through controls and training.
Employees must:
- Use equipment and techniques provided.
- Follow safe systems of work.
- Report issues, injuries, or unsafe practices.
✅ What Can You Do This Week?
- Run a refresher toolbox talk on manual handling (ask if you want one ready to go!).
- Encourage team leads to observe lifting habits on site.
- Check whether mechanical aids are being used (or need servicing!).
- Revisit risk assessments for manual handling tasks.
👀 Remember: Good habits save backs, joints and time.
Small changes in how we lift, carry, and move can make a huge difference in injury prevention. Let’s keep sprains and strains off the sick list this summer.
Here is a toolbox talk to provide to staff – Click here Toolbox_Talk_Manual_Handling.
Contact us for further information.
As workloads shift with the seasons, so do the risks we face. Now is a perfect time to reinforce safe manual handling practices and prevent musculoskeletal injuries across your team.
