Introduction To Manual Handling

According to Government statistics, manual handling injuries are amongst the biggest contributing factors to workplace absence. Many of us would rarely think twice about everyday tasks like the lifting and lowering of objects.

Over 1/3 of all workplace accidents in the U.K recorded by the Enforcing Authorities resulted from manual handling activities.

It is estimated that nearly 12 million working days are lost annually due to back or musculoskeletal issues. The cost to society is large, around £5 billion per year. It is also estimated that approximately 60% of adults in the U.K suffer back problems yearly.

This is a costly consequence for employers, through lost production, increases to insurance premiums, replacement staffing costs and legal costs. There are also costs to the victims of manual handling injuries. Examples including:

• Pain and suffering – which could continue throughout the rest of their life.
• Loss of income – having to take leave without pay or being unfit to work.
• Extra expenditure – if unable to drive, having to rely on others.

How would you be affected if you suffered a back injury? Would it prevent you from any hobbies? Playing sports? Seeing your friends? Days out with your family?

A survey carried out by the British Chiropractic Association found that; 56% of respondents said that back pain caused problems with sleep. Whilst 38% stated that it prevented them from playing with their children

Back injury often has a significant impact to an individual’s life. It is up to all of us to help make sure we take the best possible care of our own backs both whilst in the work place and at home.