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Manual handling injuries continue to be a significant concern for the UK workforce. From renewable energy sites, construction areas to office environments, these injuries impact workers' health, increase absenteeism, and impose substantial costs on businesses and the broader economy. In this blog, the Safer at Work team explore the causes, consequences, and strategies for mitigating the effects of manual handling injuries.
What Are Manual Handling Injuries?
Manual handling involves tasks that require lifting, carrying, pushing or pulling heavy or awkward loads. It is an integral part of many jobs, particularly in sectors like renewables, construction, manufacturing, healthcare and warehousing. When manual handling is done incorrectly, it can result in injuries to muscles, joints, and ligaments—especially in the back, neck, shoulders and arms.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) categorises manual handling injuries under Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs), which are responsible for a large portion of work-related health issues in the UK.
The Scope of the Problem
Manual handling injuries are a leading cause of absenteeism in the UK. According to recent HSE reports:
500,000+ work-related musculoskeletal disorder cases were reported in a single year, with manual handling as a primary cause.
8.9 million working days were lost due to these disorders, reflecting the impact on productivity and operational efficiency.
The estimated annual cost to the UK economy for work-related MSDs is around £10 billion, considering lost working days, healthcare costs, compensation claims and other indirect expenses.
In the Wind industry specifically, G+ (G+ Global Offshore Wind Health and Safety Organisation) reported that the number of manual handling incidents in 2023 rose to 108, up from 67 the previous year, and almost 29% above the 5-year average of 77. The report found that manual handling incidents were in the top 5 most incident prone work processes in 2023 across the industry.
These figures highlight the importance of addressing manual handling injuries to safeguard the workforce and minimise economic losses.
Economic Impact of Manual Handling Injuries
The economic impact of manual handling injuries extends far beyond individual businesses. Here's a closer look at how these injuries affect the economy:
Lost Productivity: Absenteeism due to manual handling injuries reduces productivity and puts additional pressure on businesses to find temporary replacements or adjust workloads, leading to increased operational costs.
Healthcare Costs: Injuries often require medical treatment, rehabilitation or even surgery. The burden on the NHS, coupled with the costs of private healthcare for injured employees, adds to the economic strain.
Compensation and Insurance: Employers face compensation claims from injured workers, which can lead to higher insurance premiums. Some businesses also need to invest in legal support to handle disputes and claims.
Workforce Morale and Retention: The impact of manual handling injuries on workforce morale can’t be underestimated. Injuries often affect employee confidence, leading to reduced job satisfaction, higher staff turnover and difficulties in retaining skilled workers.
Key Sectors Affected by Manual Handling Injuries
Certain industries are more prone to manual handling injuries, including:
Renewables: As the Renewables sector expands, workers handling large components, such as solar panels and wind turbine parts, face an increased risk of musculoskeletal injuries due to the weight and awkward shapes of these materials.
Construction: Handling heavy tools, materials, and equipment often results in back injuries, strains, and sprains.
Healthcare: Lifting and moving patients can lead to severe musculoskeletal issues among healthcare workers.
Warehousing and Logistics: Frequent lifting of goods, repetitive motions, and awkward postures contribute to a high rate of injuries in this sector.
Agriculture: Manual handling of heavy machinery, feed and animals puts farm workers at high risk.
Mitigating the Risk: Strategies for Businesses
Reducing manual handling injuries requires a proactive approach that involves both employers and employees. Here are some effective strategies for minimising risks:
Training and Education: Providing regular manual handling training helps workers understand the proper techniques for lifting and carrying loads, reducing the likelihood of injury. This is where Safer at Work can help!
Ergonomic Equipment: Investing in ergonomic tools, such as lifting aids, trolleys, and adjustable workstations, can help reduce strain on the body.
Risk Assessments: Conducting thorough risk assessments identifies potential hazards and areas where manual handling risks can be minimised. Employers should implement control measures based on these assessments.
Encouraging Reporting: A culture of openness about injuries and near-misses enables employers to take corrective actions before a minor problem escalates into a serious injury.
Promoting Workplace Wellness: Encouraging physical fitness, flexibility, and core strength can help workers build the resilience needed to handle physically demanding tasks.
Looking Ahead: A Healthier Workforce, A Stronger Economy
Addressing manual handling injuries is not only about compliance—it's about creating a safer work environment, reducing costs and fostering a healthier, more productive workforce. By taking proactive steps to prevent injuries, businesses can contribute to a stronger economy and ensure long-term sustainability.
With a focus on training, risk assessment and the use of ergonomic solutions, the UK can make significant strides in reducing the impact of manual handling injuries. This benefits not only the individual employees but also businesses and the economy as a whole.
If you are looking for Manual Handling training for your organisation, speak to the Safer at Work team today. We have a variety of flexible training options available to you. Discover which one is right for your organisation.
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