What are Musculoskeletal Disorders?

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are injuries to the muscles, tendons and nerves, often as a result of sprains and strains caused by overuse during work activities. They are commonly classed as upper-limb disorders (shoulders, wrists, forearms, hands and neck) or lower-limb disorders (legs, knees, ankles, hips and feet) but can also affect the lower back.

Specific named MSDs are carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, tension neck syndrome, trigger finger, tennis elbow, radial tunnel syndrome, repetitive strain and slipped discs. All of these can be very painful and long-lasting and may prevent a person from carrying out work tasks.

Why are Musculoskeletal Disorders a Problem in the Workplace?

Musculoskeletal disorders are a problem in the workplace because they can stop you from carrying out work tasks, whether temporarily or more permanently. If you have an MSD caused by a work activity, then continuing to pursue that task will only make the injury worse and may cause long-lasting damage.

Those with musculoskeletal disorders can also go on to develop further health problems, including mental health issues such as depression. This is particularly true if the injury affects your wellbeing and the pain prevents you from carrying out normal tasks or doing activities that you enjoy.

Furthermore, the HSE tells us that, in 2022/23, 6.6 million working days were lost due to work-related musculoskeletal disorders. This creates a big problem for employers, who are losing large amounts of time and money as a result of preventable injuries. Companies may even lose employees due to ill-health, as MSDs can prevent them from performing their role at all.

Symptoms of Musculoskeletal Disorders

Symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders vary in severity from person to person and depend on the particular part of the body that’s been affected. General symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders include:

• Localised or widespread pain.
• Tingling muscles.
• Dull aches or numbness.
• Swelling.
• Twitching or ‘burning’ muscles.
• Aching or stiffness of the whole body.
• The sensation of pulled or overworked muscles.
• Limited movement.
• Fatigue.
• Disturbed sleep.

Causes of Musculoskeletal Disorders at Work

Musculoskeletal disorders at work are commonly caused by poor manual handling practices, including lifting, carrying, pushing or pulling an object, person or animal. Manual handling is not inherently dangerous but can cause problems if the tasks are done repetitively or forcefully, and without allowing enough time in between for rest and recovery.

Manual handling tasks that are particularly hazardous include:

• Moving heavy, bulky or awkwardly-shaped loads.
• Stretching to reach things, such as a high shelf.
• Twisting, turning or bending the back and neck.
• Stooping awkwardly to reach something.
• Gripping or clenching the hands tightly for a long time.
• Moving objects in a small space without much room to manoeuvre.
• Pushing/pulling with sustained or excessive force/
• Repetitive or prolonged work using the same movement.
• Moving something that’s beyond your personal capability.
• Working in constrained body positions.

Alongside manual handling tasks, musculoskeletal disorders can also be exacerbated by:

• Using hand-held power tools for a prolonged time (vibration).
• Working with display screen equipment (DSE).
• Long-distance driving or driving heavy vehicles.
• Extreme heat or cold.
• Work pressure, stress, demands of the job or lack of breaks.
• Working when physically tired.

Looking to Learn More?

If you’re at risk from musculoskeletal disorders because of your work, then our Manual Handling Training and Display Screen Equipment Training courses will help you recognise the hazards and understand what to do to prevent them from causing you harm whilst in the workplace.

Preventing Musculoskeletal Disorders in the Workplace

Musculoskeletal disorders are largely preventable if work tasks are carried out correctly and safely, and the appropriate control measures are followed at all times.

Poor manual handling practices are a common cause of musculoskeletal disorders in employees, whether you’re lifting, carrying, pushing or pulling something or someone in a care home, warehouse, construction site or agricultural setting.

If your job requires manual handling, then you can prevent the risk of MSDs by:

1. Using an automated or mechanised method – instead of manually moving an item, can you use equipment or machinery to bear the weight for you? For example, trolleys, hoists and carts.
2. Considering TILE – before carrying out any manual handling task, always assess it first to ensure you have all the information you need to perform the job safely. This means considering TILE – the Task, Individual, Load and Environment.
3. Breaking the load down – if possible, break the load down into several, smaller components so the weight you’re moving is lessened and more evenly distributed.
4. Breaking the task down – if your manual handling task is prolonged or repetitive, remember to take breaks every so often to rest your muscles, stretch and loosen up ready to carry on.
5. Knowing your limits – do you know how much you can safely lift before a load becomes too heavy? Familiarise yourself with safe weight limits and never carry out a task if it’s beyond your personal capability.
6. Checking your footwear – your shoes may be the last thing on your mind, but slips, trips and falls when manual handling can easily be caused by wearing incorrect footwear. Ensure your shoes have good grips on the soles, covered toes and supportive ankles to prevent injuries.
7. Changing the layout of the workplace – can you reduce carrying distances, eliminate the need for lifting things to high up shelves or avoid twisted body postures by repositioning things in the work area? 
8. Adjusting the conditions of the workplace – improving lighting, flooring and temperature can also reduce stress and make manual handling tasks both easier and safer. Ideally, you want as much natural light as possible, a non-slip floor and a temperature that isn’t too hot or cold.
9. Asking another person to help – team manual handling is often safer than carrying out manual handling on your own, as the load is shared and the weight is distributed between several people. Just remember to communicate well between team members.
10. Ensuring you know how to lift, push and pull safely – undertaking training in manual handling practices is important, as it makes sure you know how to carry out tasks correctly and safely in order to avoid injury.

Musculoskeletal disorders are a common workplace injury, especially when your job role involves manual handling tasks. However, MSDs can be prevented if you carry out tasks with care and remember to take regular rest breaks, as this will prevent your body from becoming overworked and stop musculoskeletal disorders developing,

Further Resources:

• Health and Safety Training For Employees
• A Guide to the Most Common Workplace Hazards
• Managing Occupational Health in Construction
• What are the Consequences of Poor Manual Handling?
• DSE & Posture Checklist for Standing Desk Users
• Team Manual Handling Tips
• The 5 Most Common Occupational Illnesses (and How to Prevent Them)

The post Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

In this article we will look at the benefits of adopting an ergonomic approach to moving and handling and outline the risks of poor practice. We will also detail some of the manual handling techniques often used to assist individuals and look at the purpose of some key pieces of equipment you may be required to use.

What is an Ergonomic Approach to Manual Handling?

An ergonomic approach to manual handling focuses on how people work within their environment, looking at the effectiveness of the movements used to perform certain tasks. An ergonomic approach is one that adapts how a task is performed to reduce the risk of harm or injury by ensuring there is no unnecessary stress placed on the body. For example, altering the height of a bed or hoist to avoid over bending and stretching, or using two care workers to assist someone to walk using a handling belt to prevent awkward twisting or uneven weight distribution.

Those working as caregivers are at an increased risk of strains and injury to themselves and those they care for. An ergonomic approach is not only necessary for everyone’s well being but ensuring safe practice at all times is also a legal requirement. The various pieces of legislation in place, such as The Care Act 2014 and The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992, are there to protect both employees and those receiving care.

Benefits of an Ergonomic Approach

The main reason for approaching moving and handling ergonomically is to avoid physical injury. Being able to move and handle people and objects safely, means using the correct pushing, pulling, lifting, lowering and manoeuvring practices. As a caregiver, the importance of following risk assessments and care plans should also be fully understood and complied with. This helps to safeguard all parties involved.

Adopting this approach also ensures that the person you are assisting feels safe, comfortable, at ease and that their welfare and dignity are maintained throughout. Ensuring human dignity and respect at all times is vital in a caregiving role.

The main benefits of an ergonomic approach are that it:

• Prevents injury to all parties.
• Promotes the dignity of those being assisted.
• Complies with the requirement for everyone to receive care free from the risk of harm.
• Reduces staff sickness through injury and protects long term musculoskeletal health.
• Ensures better quality of care.
• Builds trust and confidence between the caregiver and the receiver.

Risks of Poor Moving and Handling

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are the most common injury caused by non-ergonomic manual handling practices. For example, back pain and upper and lower limb disorders, including aches, tenderness and stiffness in the legs, hips, shoulders, neck and joints.

If not carried out ergonomically, manual handling activities can lead to serious physical injury to you and the person you are moving. Those being moved may suffer from damage to fragile skin, cuts, grazes, bruises, and injuries to the neck, shoulders and arms if appropriate techniques are not used. 

The main risks associated with poor moving and handling practice include:

• Cumulative stress injuries to caregivers.
• Greater staff absences due to injury. 
• A lack of trust between the caregiver and the receiver. 
• Poor quality care.
• A poor reputation of both staff and organisation.
• A failure to comply with health and safety standards and legislation.
• Poor upholding of the individual’s dignity and wellbeing.

Want to Learn More?

Take a look at our dedicated Health and Social Care Courses for a varied range of topics, such as Moving and Handling People and our Communication Skills Course. Developing your knowledge beyond core mandatory training is an excellent way to broaden your understanding, enabling you to provide a higher quality of care.

Manual Handling Techniques for Carers

Moving and handling techniques can involve working with or without equipment and are based on ergonomics and natural human movement patterns. Their aim is to prevent the risk of injury to all parties. The correct technique to use and when, will depend on the individual’s needs and abilities and the nature of the task. Always consider the risk assessments and work in line with their care plan.

It is important to remember that there can be some variation to moving and handling techniques. The techniques you use in practice should be those that you have been practically trained to perform. When working with a colleague, always work in a way that you are both familiar with to avoid any misunderstanding and communicate throughout. 

Before we take a look at some specific techniques that adopt a safe and ergonomic approach, it is important to always keep in mind that safe and efficient movements must be based on a sound posture. No matter the task, always ensure that you:

• Get close – getting close to the load, whether that be a person or an object, means being closer to your base area, improving balance, stability and comfort.
• Adopt an angle – approaching a load/person at an angle instead of at their side can reduce over-twisting.
• Relax your knees – this doesn’t mean bent, just relaxed to allow for a more even distribution of weight. 
• Offset your feet – having your feet apart with one slightly in front increases your base area, giving you better balance and making it easier to adjust your position. 
• Keep your head up – raising your head helps your spine stay in good alignment. 
• Lead with your head – for all parties, the head should lead the way when sitting, standing and walking.

Helping Someone Walk

If a service user requires assistance from one care worker whilst walking, this technique is often the most appropriate:

• Stand beside the person with your near arm around their waist and hold their furthest hip.
• With your other hand, make a fist or make your hand flat with your palm up and bring it across your front toward them. They can then place their palm on yours for support. 
• This technique allows the receiver to use a stick in their free hand if required.
• Do not offer a linked arm or interlinked hand hold, as if they fall they will likely take you with them.

This technique can be adapted to having a caregiver offering support on both sides, or assisted walking with a handling belt can also provide additional stability. 

Sit to Stand Technique

Being able to assist someone from a sitting position can be invaluable. If standing from a raisable chair or bed, always utilise that equipment to aid both you, as this will reduce any physical impact on all involved. Whilst we mention standing from a chair in the example below, it can be applied to various sit to stand scenarios. 

• Make sure the person’s feet are slightly apart, close to the chair and with the foot of their strongest leg slightly further back. Moving their bottom closer to the front of the seat, if possible, can make standing easier.
• Begin by standing at their side – this can be performed as a single carer or with a colleague. Stand at a slight angle to avoid over twisting as they stand and avoid tensing up.
• Keeping your feet apart, ensure your back foot is facing the chair and the other in the direction of travel.
• Lower yourself down, bending slightly at the knee with a straight back and place the palm of your hand on the front of their shoulder.
• The other hand can go around their lower back for support, or if using a handling belt, hold the handle.
• Ask them to bend forward slightly and always look ahead, not down.
• They may use the chair arms to push up.
• Communicate clearly, such as “one, two, stand”. Always make sure they know what is expected of them and when to avoid confusion and jarring – it helps achieve a smoother and safer process. 

Patient Transfer Techniques

There are many situations that require an individual to be transferred and this can be a regular part of a person’s routine. It could be that they require transfer from an armchair to a wheelchair, bed to chair, chair to toilet or bath, or any combination of these. 

The care plan will outline the appropriate technique to use and any specialist equipment that is required. It should never be assumed that because you have equipment to hand and know how to use it, that it is safe and appropriate to use for anyone.

Some common pieces of equipment used during transfers may include:

• Handling belts.
• Hoists and slings.
• Wheelchairs.
• Turning aids.
• Transfer boards.

Should You Lift a Person Heavier Than You?

The key word to note within this question is ‘lift’, as it can imply physically supporting a person’s entire weight to raise them. Many areas of the health and social care sector have a ‘no lift’ policy in place, not only to protect their staff but also those they care for. Always follow care plans, undertake risk assessments and utilise the appropriate ergonomic techniques and equipment required. 

When considering the weight of an individual in comparison to your own strength and abilities, it is worth considering what adjustments need to be made to assist a bariatric patient. Many pieces of equipment used to support the moving and handling of an individual have a maximum weight capacity and may not be appropriate. If a person requires assistance whilst in bed, additional caregivers may be required to safely roll them and perform care tasks. 

The impact of lifting and supporting the leg of a bariatric patient, for example, is one that can often be underestimated. This could be whilst providing personal care, wound care or to assist with dressing. Whilst it may seem like a standard task, it is one that often sees the caregiver feeling unacceptable strain from prolonged weight bearing and awkward positioning and twisting. If any discomfort is felt, the approach to the task should be reassessed and adjusted accordingly.

Tips and Advice for Moving and Handling Patients

Using appropriate techniques and equipment is the foundation of applying an ergonomic approach to moving and handling activities in health and social care. The technique or equipment required will be based on the individual and the results of the risk assessment. For example, their mobility, weight and height, fragility and the task to be performed all help to determine what is used and when. 

When it comes to moving and handling there are many things to consider, but when it involves a person, the care provided should always be person-centred. Those delivering the care should be fully trained and competent. Even if certified in moving and handling, if a piece of equipment is unfamiliar to you or has not been assessed and deemed appropriate for a particular individual, you should not proceed without seeking further guidance and support. 

It is also vital to remember that not only is dignity a key factor when performing moving and handling tasks, but so is the need to maintain and promote independence. To do this you should never make assumptions about a person’s abilities, just because they struggle with certain activities does not mean that they need assistance for everything. 

Communicate, ask questions, follow care plans and allow enough time for people to perform any tasks and movements they can independently. A person should never be overly handled or have reduced opportunity for independence to save time, due to insufficiently trained staff or because of unclear communication. 

An ergonomic approach is a central aspect of safe moving and handling, but that alone does not make for good practice, it is a multifaceted approach with the individual’s needs, choices, wellbeing, dignity and independence being supported throughout. 

As a health and social care worker, it is important to protect the safety of yourself and those in your care. Manual handling tasks can be big or small and involve moving and handling people, equipment or a variety of objects on a daily basis. The movements involved can lead to strains and injuries if done incorrectly and can have a direct impact on the quality of care and wellbeing of those involved, making it essential to adopt an ergonomic approach to all tasks to ensure best practice at all times.

Further Resources:

• What are Moving and Handling Policies in Health and Social Care: Guidance on Equipment
• 9 Ways to Help Promote Dignity in Your Care Home
• Ensuring Human Dignity and Respect in Nursing: A Checklist
• Using Technology in Health and Social Care
• Moving and Handling of People in Residential Care Course
• What is Skills for Care?
• What are the Consequences of Poor Manual Handling?
• Introduction to Safeguarding Adults Training

The post Ergonomic Approach To Manual Handling: Techniques For Carers appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

As these statistics reveal, the consequences of poor manual handling are all too common and can significantly affect people’s health. It’s therefore important that you understand safe manual handling weight limits and handling techniques for preventing harm to the body. You should be aware of what factors affect a person’s ability to perform tasks safely.

Need a Manual Handling Course?

Our Manual Handling Training course helps to ensure that you are sufficiently trained in the principles and practices of safe manual handling. You can also find a range of our Health & Safety courses here.

Health and safety law in the UK requires businesses to protect the wellbeing of their employees. Following good manual handling techniques and adhering to weight limits will therefore also ensure your business complies with safe manual handling procedures, as set out by the relevant UK legislation and guidance documents.

This article will provide a thorough overview of the manual handling weight limits and guidelines that are set out in the law and advised by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). 

What are the Manual Handling Weight Limits for Lifting at Work?

There are no specific limits for manual handling and lifting at work, because it depends on a variety of factors, such as the type of task and the individual capabilities of the worker.

Under the Manual Handling Operations Regulations (MHOR) 1992, employers must take appropriate steps to reduce the risk of injury posed to employees by manual handling operations to the lowest level reasonably practicable. The specific weight limits and manual handling procedures required to achieve this will vary depending on each type of manual handling activity.

According to the hierarchy of measures set out by the MHOR, avoiding manual handling operations should always be considered first, e.g. by using automation like production lines. If this isn’t possible, the duty holder must assess the risks posed by manual handling activities in the workplace and determine what is needed to control them. This involves carry out a risk assessment of the manual handling activities. They must then put the necessary safety measures in place to reduce the risks to people’s health and safety. 

There are 4 key factors that duty holders need to consider during the risk assessment for manual handling:

• The task. For example, how long it will take, how frequently it’s carried out, whether it is repetitive, whether it provides sufficient rest or recovery, and if it involves twisting, stooping, or reaching upwards. These can all affect how strenuous the work is.
• The individual. Everyone’s physical capabilities and limitations differ due to a number of factors, such as the person’s age or their physical dimensions. Some people may be particularly at risk, such as new or expectant mothers, people with disabilities, and those returning to work from a recent injury. No two people are alike, so employers must ensure they’re protecting everyone from health and safety risks equally by adjusting the work and safety precautions according to their abilities.
• The load. If it is oversized or bulky, difficult to grasp, and has a shifting centre of gravity (such as if it contains liquid), then it can be difficult for the person to get a solid grip and hold the load steady. This may result in more strain being placed on the body.
• The environment. For example, if there isn’t enough space in the area for the person handling the load to move comfortably, if the floor is bumpy or has variations in levels, or if the person can’t see properly, then the task will be more difficult and therefore more strenuous to carry out. Psychological responses to the work and workplace conditions can also put people at greater risk, such as high workloads, tight deadlines, and lack of control over the work and working methods.

These four factors are known as TILE, or sometimes LITE. They are vital to keep in mind when identifying safe lifting and weight limits for certain manual handling activities. In light of these factors and various other guidance, the MHOR and various HSE manual handling guidance documents set out some suggested manual handling weight limits for lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, and team activities.

As there is no one size fits all approach, this information needs to be considered in the context of the specific manual handling activities in your workplace. However, the guidance documents are useful tools for helping the person in charge of setting the necessary manual handling limits.

Safe Lifting Weights: the HSE’s Lifting and Lowering Risk Filter

Although the MHOR do not set specific weight limits, the HSE outlines some guidelines for lifting and lowering. They should not be referred to as ‘safe limits’ as this depends on all the factors involved as discussed earlier, but the HSE states they use “broad assumptions or generalisations where, if met, the risk of injury is considered to be low.” Working outside of these suggested ranges is likely to increase the risk of injury.

The HSE’s lifting and lowering risk filter outlines general safe lifting capacities for men and women, based on data from the general population:

As this shows, a 25 kg load being manually handled is considered to be a safe upper limit for the average man and 16 kg for the average woman.

It’s important to note, however, that this is only if the person carrying the load can keep it at knuckle height and close to their body. If a load passes between the zones, e.g. if you lift a box from knuckle height to a shelf at shoulder height, it would no longer be safe to handle a 25 kg load. If you anticipate the load will pass between zones during the task, then the lower weight must be adhered to.

Whether the person’s arms need to extend must be factored in too. For example, if the manual handling activity involves carrying a 16 kg load at elbow height, the advised limit for extended arms in this zone is 10 kg, so the weight of the load must be reduced in order to be safe.

Furthermore, it’s vital to understand that these risk filters only apply to manual handling activities where the load:

• Is easily grasped with both hands.
• Is in reasonable working conditions.
• Can be held with the worker in a stable body position and using safe lifting and handling techniques.
• Is able to be held against the body.
• Is carried no further than about 10 metres without rest.
• Does not prevent the person from walking normally.
• Does not obstruct the carrier’s view.
• Does not require the carrier’s hands to be below knuckle height or much above elbow height.
• Can be securely loaded onto the shoulder without needing to be lifted first (e.g. by sliding it onto your shoulder from a shoulder-height shelf.) In this situation, the filter values can be applied up to 20 metres.

Certain factors will require manual handling activities to undergo a more thorough assessment, and may need different weight limits and handling practices.

For example, if the weights exceed those in the above risk filter, if the handling involves twisting, if the handling is carried out more frequently than one lift every 2 minutes, if it involves a team, if weights vary significantly, if the load is difficult to grasp, and if the person is at an increased risk (e.g. those with disabilities or a recent injury).

To identify these higher-risk manual handling activities, the HSE has created the Manual Handling Assessment Charts (MAC) for duty holders to use. It will help them understand what factors may need modifying to control high risk manual handling tasks.

Safe Lifting Weights and Techniques: the HSE’s Manual Handling Assessment Charts

The HSE Manual Handling Assessment Charts (the MAC tool) helps duty holders assess the most common risk factors in lifting and lowering, carrying, and team handling operations. It uses a variety of illustrations and infographics to help demonstrate how various factors increase the level of risk, and how each risk range will require careful consideration of how to protect people’s wellbeing.  

For example, the first area covered in this guide is assessing the load weight and frequency involved in lifting. It shows how the level of risk increases where the rate of the lift and its weight increase.

When tasks enter a new colour band, this means the risk has increased and further control measures to ensure safety are likely to be required compared to lower bands.

The manual handling risk areas covered by the MAC tool are:

Lifting operations:

1. Load weight/frequency.
2. Hand distance from the lower back.
3. Vertical lift zones.  
4. Torso twisting and sideways bending.
5. Postural constraints.
6. Grip on the load.
7. Floor surface.
8. Environmental factors.

Carrying operations:

1. Load weight/frequency.
2. Hand distance from the lower back.
3. Asymmetrical torso or load.
4. Postural constraints.
5. Grip on the load.
6. Floor surface.
7. Carry distance.
8. Obstacles on route.
9. Environmental factors.

Team handling operations:

1. Load weight.
2. Hand distance from the lower back.
3. Vertical lift zones.
4. Torso twisting and sideways bending.
5. Postural constraints.
6. Grip on the load.
7. Floor surface.
8. Carry distance.
9. Obstacles on route.
10. Communication, coordination, and control.
11. Environmental factors.

If any of these apply to your work, it will be important for your employer to consider the guidance in the MAC tool and the risk zones set out for each area.

For example:

• Lifting a load every five minutes (12 per hour) that is below 15 kg is considered safe, whereas lifting a load every minute (60 per hour) that is above 45 kg enters the purple zone, which means it is an unacceptable level of risk and operations may present a serious risk of injury, requiring immediate improvements.
• Carrying one load every 30 minutes (two per hour) that is below 20 kg is considered safe, whereas carrying a load every minute (60 per hour) that is above 20 kg enters the amber zone, which means it needs to be monitored closely for risks to the carrier’s health and safety.
• Two people carrying a load weighing 65 kg – 85 kg is considered in the red risk zone. This means the task may expose the workers to a risk of injury and prompt action will be needed.

To view the full guidance document, which will help you identify what factors make certain manual handling tasks higher risk, visit the following HSE link: Manual Handling Assessment Charts (the MAC tool).

Safe Manual Handling Procedures: HSE Guidance for Pushing, Pulling, and Repetitive Tasks of Upper Limbs

The HSE has also published guidance documents that function similarly to the Manual Handling Assessment Charts, but are designed for pushing and pulling activities (the RAPP tool) as well as manual handling activities that are identified as repetitive tasks of upper limbs (the ART tool). Like the MAC tool, these will help duty holders identify what factors can affect the safety of pushing and pulling, and repetitive tasks that require using the upper limbs.

For example:

• If the equipment used to help move a load is small with one or two wheels (e.g. a wheelbarrow) and, combined with the weight of the load, weighs between 100 kg to 200 kg, this enters the high-risk zone and exposes the worker to a risk of injury, meaning prompt action is needed.
• If the person’s body has to be severely bent, twisted, or inclined during a pushing or pulling operation, this enters the high-risk zone.
• If the work is not too repetitive, e.g. 10 times per minute or less, the risk is within an acceptable zone. However, if it is highly repetitious, e.g. if a similar motion pattern of the arm and hand is repeated more than 20 times per minute, this enters the high-risk zone.
• If a light amount of force has to be exerted with the hand part of the time (15% to 30% of the time) then the risk is within an acceptable zone. However, if a strong level of force has to be exerted with the hand almost all of the time during the operation (80% or more of the time), this enters the high-risk zone and changes are required.

To view the full guidance documents, which will help you identify what factors make certain pushing, pulling, and repetitive tasks of the upper limbs higher risk, visit the following HSE links: Risk Assessment of Pushing and Pulling (RAPP) Tool and Assessment of repetitive tasks of the upper limbs (the ART tool).

Safe Lifting and Handling Techniques

It’s vital that those carrying out manual handling operations understand how to adopt safe handling techniques. Whether or not you’re able to do so can greatly affect the safety of the task and what weight limits are suitable, as outlined in the HSE guidance documents discussed above.

To carry out manual handling procedures safely, you should:

• Position yourself next to the load with feet flat on the floor, hip-width apart, and with one leg slightly forward to maintain balance.
• Bend to pick up and lift the load using your back, hips, and knees, keeping your back straight as you do so.
• Get a good grip on the load and hold it as close as possible to your body (with the heaviest side against your body).
• Keep your head up when handling and carrying the load. Ensure you are able to look over the load so you can watch where you’re going.
• Move slowly and carefully to keep control.
• Avoid twisting your back or leaning sideways. Keep shoulders level and facing the same direction as your hips.
• Avoid lifting the load above your shoulders or letting it drop below your waist.
• Put down and adjust the load along your route if necessary and possible.
• Aim to push rather than pull where possible.
• Avoid lifting from floor level or above shoulder height where possible.
• Ensure the work environment is safe for you to carry out the task in, e.g. has good lighting conditions, a clear path, and an even, non-slip surface.

One final thing to remember is that, even if you don’t feel strain after one or two incidents of overextending, manual handling activities can very easily cause harm to your body in the long run. By the time you recognise a task is causing problems, you may have already suffered a long-term injury.

This is why it’s so important for duty holders to assess the risks and put in place the right safe manual handling procedures for their business’s work activities. Likewise, it’s important for employees to follow these control measures and adopt good practices and techniques, as well as listen to the limitations of their body. They should communicate with their manager or supervisor, or a representative, if they have concerns about their manual handling activities, so their employer can take steps to reduce the risks to their health and safety.

Further Resources:

• Manual Handling Quiz
• What are the Consequences of Poor Manual Handling?
• Manual Handling Techniques and Tips
• Manual Handling Training: What are the Regulations?
• Warehouse Safety Quiz
• Team Manual Handling Tips
• 40 Warehouse Safety Tips
• Online Manual Handling Training Course

The post Manual Handling Weight Limits: What are the Safe Lifting Guidelines and Techniques? appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

‘…any transporting or supporting of a load (including the lifting, putting down, pushing, pulling, carrying or moving thereof) by hand or bodily force.’

Under the Manual Handling Regulations, if your workplace requires manual handling activities then it’s essential that everyone receives proper training and understands the associated risks.

This article will outline the importance of manual handling training, and answer some common queries surrounding manual handling regulations.

Why is Manual Handling Training Important?

In most workplaces, manual handling happens every day. Manual handling isn’t just confined to construction sites and carrying bricks. It also occurs in places like kitchens, where staff need to carry heavy pans and large boxes of food. Even offices require some form of manual handling.

Manual handling training is equally important in all environments where manual handling occurs.

There are two main reasons why it is important:

Reducing Injuries

Manual handling training ensures safety and reduces the risk of injury. This applies to everyone on site: employers, supervisors and managers, staff, and site visitors.

The most common injury from manual handling is musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). The term MSD refers to any injury, damage, or disorder of the joints or tissues in the upper or lower limbs or the back. The HSE report that 473,000 workers suffered from work-related MSDs in 2022/23. Of this number, 41% (196,000) were MSDs in the upper limbs or neck.

Increasing Productivity

The HSE also report that 31.5 million working days were lost in 2022/23 due to work-related ill health. Musculoskeletal disorders accounted for 21% of this number.

Such a large amount of lost days significantly impacts productivity and output, as employees simply aren’t in work to complete their jobs. Manual handling training is important for reducing this figure and improving overall productivity.

Is Manual Handling Training a Legal Requirement?

Under the Manual Handling Regulations you are legally obliged to ensure all employees are trained and competent in manual handling. Staff should avoid manual handling and, if they can’t, you must take steps to reduce the risk of injury.

This risk can be dramatically reduced if you carry out an appropriate risk assessment. A risk assessment involves examining what could cause harm to people and reveals areas for potential risk, which you should then work to rectify.

There are five steps to a risk assessment:

1. Identify the hazards. To achieve this, you should conduct a workplace observation, ask employees for feedback, and review accident and ill health records. You should especially assess the hazards that come with:

• The particular task – Does it require more than one person? Does it demand awkward body movements like twisting?
• Type of load – Is the load too heavy for one person? Do people need additional equipment to transport it?
• The work environment – Is the floor uneven and slippery? Are there objects in the way that increase the chances of tripping? Is the lighting sufficient?

2. Decide who might be harmed and how. Look at each specific hazard and how they might harm staff. You should also take into consideration vulnerable workers, such as young workers, people with existing back problems, and pregnant women.
3. Evaluate the risks. You should evaluate the risks and decide whether you can eliminate the risk factors. If you can’t, you should try to control them as much as possible.
4. Record your findings and implement them. It’s recommended that you write down your findings to show compliance. This is required by law if there are more than five employees. You need to implement your precautions and show that the remaining risk is low.
5. Review and update. A risk assessment must never be conducted and forgotten about. You should frequently review the assessment, re-assess the risks to see if the level of harm has increased, and update accordingly.

Who Needs Manual Handling Training?

The manual handling regulations state that anybody who performs manual handling should receive suitable training. People whose work may require manual handling includes, but isn’t limited to:

• Warehouse and factory staff.
• Heavy manual labourers.
• Construction and building site workers.
• Office workers.
• Delivery drivers.
• Kitchen staff.
• Farmhands.

Does Manual Handling Training Expire?

Here at High Speed Training, we recommend that you refresh your manual handling training every year. This is in accordance with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), who state that all health and safety training should be refreshed at least annually to ensure safety.

Need a Course?

High Speed Training offer a manual handling training course, which conforms to the manual handling regulations. It provides the necessary information and training for organisations to understand more about the risks associated with manual handling, how to undergo a risk assessment and how to ensure appropriate control measures are put in place.

What to Read Next:

• What are the Consequences of Poor Manual Handling?
• Do You Know Your Manual Handling Weight Limits?
• Warehouse Safety Quiz
• Manual Handling Quiz
• What Does TILE Stand For? The TILE & LITE Acronyms
• Team Manual Handling Tips
• Manual Handling Techniques & Tips
• Manual Handling Training

The post Manual Handling Training: What are the Regulations? appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

What Does TILE Stand For?

TILE is an acronym that aims to help you carry out a manual handling risk assessment. TILE prompts you to consider each essential area of the activity in order to improve health and safety. In terms of manual handling, the TILE acronym stands for Task, Individual, Load, and Environment:

T – Task. This means considering the manual handling activity itself, i.e. the lifting, lowering, carrying, pushing or pulling, and looking at how it may affect your health and safety. For example, does the task involve repetitive movements, strenuous movements, long distances, or uneven weight distribution?

I – Individual. This means considering the person who will be carrying out the manual handling activity, i.e. you or another colleague. For example, how strong, fit or able is the person? Are they capable of manual handling alone? Do they need assistance?

L – Load. This means considering the object or person that is being moved, and looking at how this may affect health and safety. For example, is the load particularly heavy, bulky, hard to grasp or unstable?

E – Environment. This means considering the area in which the load is being moved, and looking at how this could make the manual handling task unsafe. For example, are there any space constraints? Is the floor slippery or uneven? Is there sufficient lighting? Are there any trip hazards?

What About TILEO?

The acronyms TILE and TILEO are interchangeable in regards to manual handling. TILEO means the same as TILE (Task, Individual, Load, and Environment) but also includes ‘Other factors’:

O – Other factors. This means considering anything else, in addition to the task, individual, load and environment, which may impact on the safety of the manual handling activity. For example, will personal protective equipment (PPE) make movement difficult? Is more/different PPE needed?

Need a Course?

Our Manual Handling Training Course provides the necessary information and training for organisations to understand more about the risks associated with manual handling, how to undergo a risk assessment and how to ensure appropriate control measures are put in place.

What Does LITE Stand For?

LITE is an alternative manual handling acronym to TILE. The two terms mean the same thing, but the letters are in a different order. Both LITE and TILE are acceptable terms to use when referring to manual handling – it depends on which you find easiest to remember. LITE stands for Load, Individual, Task and Environment, and aims to help you complete your manual handling risk assessment. The LITE acronym stands for:

L – Load i.e. the size, shape, surface-type and weight of the object being moved.

I – Individual i.e. the capabilities of the person carrying out the manual handling activity.

T – Task i.e. the type of manual handling activity, such as pushing, pulling, lifting or carrying etc.

E – Environment i.e. the area in which the object is being moved.

Further Resources:

• Team Manual Handling Tips
• Do you Know Your Manual Handling Weight Limits?
• Manual Handling Techniques & Tips
• Manual Handling Course

The post What Does TILE Stand For? The TILE & LITE Acronyms appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

However, if not done properly, manual handling can lead to the gradual deterioration of both physical and mental health. Receiving training in proper manual handling techniques is essential. Our bodies have amazing capabilities, but also great limitations. Like machines, they’re going to develop faults and break down after long-term misuse. And when we’re worn down physically, we tend to get worn down mentally too.

Consequences of Poor Manual Handling

Consequences can be split into three main areas: short term and superficial injuries, long term injuries and mental health issues.

1. Short-term and/or superficial injuries

For example: cuts, bruises, sprains, tears, small fractures, muscle strain, etc. Usually caused by sudden and small unexpected accidents, e.g. losing grip and dropping a load, lifting an excessively heavy load at an awkward angle, or falling while carrying a load.

2. Long-term injuries

This mainly involves damage to the musculoskeletal system of the body, including muscles, tendons, bones, joints, ligaments, nerves, and blood vessels – usually caused by long-term, gradual wear-and-tear as a result of repetitive strenuous activities. These are known as musculoskeletal disorders.

3. Mental health issues

For example: long-term stress, anxiety, and depression. This is usually a negative side effect of dealing with long-term injuries that have disabling and difficult-to-manage symptoms.

Physical ailments are more readily recognised than mental health issues related to poor manual handling, but we must not overlook the fact that long-term injuries can have a serious knock-on effect: they can lead to poor mental health due to the stress and anxiety triggered by long-term physical issues.

This is why knowing how to prevent the development of both physical and mental ailments caused by bad manual handling practices is essential.

Let’s take a look at two of the more major negative consequences – musculoskeletal disorders and depression – in more detail.

Musculoskeletal Disorders

You have likely experienced or know someone who has experienced problems in the neck, upper/lower limbs, or upper/lower back, and so have first-hand knowledge of how debilitating they can be. Long-term disorders and injuries in these areas are defined as musculoskeletal disorders.

The majority of work-related musculoskeletal disorders are caused by poor manual handling practices, particularly tasks that involve:

• Heavy or awkward loads (loads may be animate e.g. people or animals, or inanimate e.g. boxes and tools).
• Twisting, turning, and bending the back, neck, or whole torso.
• Hard-to-reach areas that require stretching.
• Working in a cramped environment with unstable flooring.

You might feel like your body is tough enough to take the strain of having to occasionally adopt awkward positions, but no one’s body is built for misuse: over time it will inevitably wear down.

According to the HSE:

• Manual handling, lifting and repetitive keyboard typing are the prime causative factors behind work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs).
• In 2022/23, the number of workers suffering from WRMSDs (new or long-standing) was an estimated 473,000. This makes it the second highest type of new and long-standing cases of work-related ill health at 27% of the total cases.
• Examples of industries that have higher rates of WRMSDs include construction, health and social work, agriculture, transportation and storage.

These statistics reveal the pervasiveness of work-related musculoskeletal disorders, particularly in relation to manual handling: the industries with higher ratings are those that require a significant amount of manual handling.

But they also reveal how enduring they are: 132,000 were new cases, meaning around 341,000 were existing cases that had yet to fully recover.

Need a Course?

Our Manual Handling Training Course will help you to understand more about the risks associated with manual handling, how to carry out a risk assessment and how to ensure appropriate control measures are put in place.

Symptoms of Musculoskeletal Disorders

Musculoskeletal disorders have numerous symptoms that range from mildly uncomfortable to severely disabling, including:

• Localised or widespread pain.
• Limited movement.
• Dull aches.
• Swelling.
• Aching or stiffness of the whole body.
• The sensation of pulled or overworked muscles.
• Fatigue.
• Disturbed sleep.
• Twitching or ‘burning’ muscles.

Many of these symptoms are difficult to manage, and make day-to-day tasks a challenge – particularly if the person has to limit or stop work activities altogether. It can completely uproot their life, especially because musculoskeletal disorders are typically long-term ailments and have slow and laborious recovery processes.

The good news is that musculoskeletal disorders take a long time to develop: repeated strain of the back over prolonged periods is what will put you at risk, not the occasional overestimation of your strength.

But the bad news is that, because it takes repeated strain, you may not notice the damage you’re doing to your body until it’s too late. Thus, preventing risk by engaging in safe manual handling practices is a necessity.

Depression

The negative mental health effects that may stem from injuries relating to manual handling must not be overlooked. Research has revealed that many workers who suffer from musculoskeletal disorders end up requiring treatment for depression.

Depression comes with a variety of extremely debilitating symptoms that, on top of the musculoskeletal disorder itself, would likely slow the person’s life down to a crawl or to a complete halt.

Symptoms of depression may include:

• Continuous low mood.
• Hopelessness.
• Lack of physical and mental energy.
• Disturbed sleep.
• Feeling helpless.
• Changes in weight or appetite (either decreased or increased).
• Feelings of uselessness.
• Low self-esteem.
• Feeling guilt-ridden.
• High levels of anxiety.
• Continuous thoughts of worry.
• High levels of irritability and intolerance.
• A severe lack of motivation or interest.
• Difficulty making decisions.
• Lack of enjoyment in life.
• Thoughts or acts of harming oneself.
• Suicidal thoughts.

Depression varies from person to person, particularly depending on what the main cause is. But in the case of musculoskeletal disorders prompted by manual handling activities, sufferers will have a great deal of overlap in terms of what type of symptoms and negative thoughts they experience. For example:

• Having hopeless thoughts that their condition will never get better.
• Thoughts of worry: thinking that everything they do will make it worse.
• Feeling useless as a result of their lack of mobility (particularly if they can’t carry out manual handling activities anymore and have to change job roles).
• Feeling like they can no longer get enjoyment out of life because they can’t engage in activities that require physical activity, e.g. sports.

The extensive lists of debilitating symptoms that come with musculoskeletal disorders and depression clearly demonstrate how poor manual handling can have serious long-term effects that stem from one another, and how important it is to make a conscious effort to adopt proper manual handling techniques.

Further Resources:

• What does TILE stand for in Manual Handling? 
• Manual Handling Weight Limits: What are the Safe Lifting Guidelines and Techniques?
• Manual Handling Training: What are the Regulations?
• Manual Handling Quiz
• Manual Handling Techniques & Tips
• Manual Handling Training

The post What are the Consequences of Poor Manual Handling? appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

Manual handling is something that every retail worker is familiar with, whether it’s pushing pallets of fresh produce onto the shop floor, carrying stacks of books or lifting boxes off a delivery lorry and lowering them into storage. Manual handling is likely to be an everyday occurrence and not something that makes you look twice.

However, the rise in online retail is changing manual handling practices. Instead of carting stock around the shop floor, thousands of people are now responsible for picking, packing and transporting our online purchase in jumbo-size warehouses. And several more thousands of people are then responsible for delivering those items to us. But these activities don’t come without risks.

Musculoskeletal disorders result from repetitive or heavy lifting, bending and twisting, uncomfortable working positions and using too much force to push or pull a load (among other things). It’s not just the weight of an item that’s the problem either – carrying items long distances, picking it up and putting it down numerous times, awkward postures, pushing cages or trolleys over uneven flooring and lifting items to high shelves all increase the chance of injury.

According to the HSE, in 2022/23, the UK lost 31.5 million working days as a result of work-related ill health. 473,000 workers suffered from a new or long-standing work-related musculoskeletal disorder, in particular back pain (41% of cases) and upper limb pain (another 41%). Due to the relentless nature of online ordering systems, people working in warehouse environments are incredibly susceptible to musculoskeletal disorders, including pain and problems in the neck, shoulders, arms, wrists, back and knees.

As orders come flying in one after another, staff may find themselves facing a shift filled with constant manual handling activities without sufficient breaks for the body to rest. In this scenario, staff may be tempted to rush in order to keep up, which only makes the problem worse as individuals abandon the recommended manual handling techniques in order to simply get the job done.

As the number of online retailers continues to rise, so does the likelihood of injury. So how can the likelihood of injury from manual handling be reduced?

First of all, identify all of the tasks that involve manual handling in your workplace and consider whether manual handling is absolutely necessary. Can any of the tasks be redesigned or avoided? Perhaps you could use a mechanical aid, like a pallet truck or a conveyor, to help take some of the load.

Secondly, are the people who carry out the manual handling activities fit for the task? Manual handling is a strenuous task so it’s essential that workers are in good health, have a good level of fitness and can meet the physical demands. This means that you may need to make allowances or changes to the job role for people with mobility problems and other disabilities, pregnant women and older people who are at more risk of harm. These people may not be able to lift heavy loads, stand for long periods of time or deal with poor posture as easily as other workers.

Are there any other hazards that could increase the risk? Order picking can be a stressful task and working shifts (especially at night) can cause fatigue. Stress and tiredness can easily affect performance and will increase the likelihood of accidents and injuries at work, so the people affected by them need to take extra care.

The risks to health from manual handling can only be controlled by knowledge. If every worker understands the hazards, follows good handling techniques and knows what they can do to prevent harm then the injuries from manual handling will become less likely. Ignorance and poor practice have a lot to answer for, so staff awareness is essential.

Need a Training Course?

Our Manual Handling Training provides the necessary information and training for organisations to understand more about the risks associated with manual handling, how to undergo a risk assessment and how to ensure appropriate control measures are put in place.

Further Resources:

• Manual Handling Quiz
• Do You Know Your Manual Handling Weight Limits?
• What Defines Good Customer Service in Retail?
• Manual Handling Training

The post How Online Retail is Changing Manual Handling Practices appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

The people most at risk from manual handling injuries are those in the construction, healthcare and agriculture industries. Most injuries affect the muscles, joints and tendons, in all parts of the body, and tend to develop over time due to continued poor manual handling practice – so how can this be avoided?

Team manual handling is one way to help reduce the risks, as the load can be reduced and shared out amongst multiple people – but it’s essential that this is carried out with care too!

7 Tips for Team Manual Handling

When team handling, consideration must be given to:

1. The load’s weight

How heavy is the load you are transporting? Could it be split into smaller loads to make it easier to move? Consider using smaller containers or putting a maximum weight limit on loads to ensure workers know what to expect. It’s also important to check that the load is evenly balanced so that one team member isn’t supporting more weight than another. If necessary, use a mechanical aid for particularly heavy or awkward loads.

2. The height at which the load is being carried

If a load is being carried by a team, is it positioned so that everyone can get a good grip? Can everyone comfortably hold the load without having to stretch or twist? Pay particular attention to teams in which the members are of different heights or builds, as what is easy for one person may be difficult for another. The load should be carried around waist height.

For more information, check out our guide on Manual Handling Weight Limits.

3. Any twisting/sideways bending

Twisting or bending whilst transporting a load should be avoided as it can easily cause musculoskeletal disorders, aches and strains. Make sure that the workspace is big enough for free movement and that obstacles are removed so that twisting is not necessary. Team members need to communicate to ensure everyone has free movement at all times and should stop if someone raises a concern.

4. Postural constraints

Can everyone grip the load comfortably, without stretching or twisting, and walk freely whilst holding the load? Make sure that movement is unrestricted so that team members don’t get in each other’s way or get stuck behind or in-between objects. Ideally, each team member should be able to see clearly in the direction of travel. If this is not possible then good communication between team members is essential.

Need a Course?

Our Manual Handling Training provides the necessary information and training for organisations to understand more about the risks associated with manual handling, how to undergo a risk assessment and how to ensure appropriate control measures are put in place.

5. Grip on the load

If the load is particularly difficult to grip, consider using handles or gloves to make things easier so that the load doesn’t slip and fall whilst in transit. Alternatively, transport the load using an aid, such as a trolley, if a good grip cannot be achieved. Make sure that everyone in the team has achieved a good grip before setting off with the load.

6. Environmental factors

Check the layout of the area where the load will be carried: is there sufficient space to move freely? Are there any obstacles, such as furniture, wires or other people? Will the load be transported around any corners, up or down stairs or over uneven flooring? All of these environmental factors will affect how easily the team is able to manoeuvre the load and so should be assessed before transportation begins. Make sure everyone within the team is aware of any hazards that may affect them.

7. Communication and co-ordination

Communication is the key to team handling operations to ensure everyone is alert and in-sync throughout the load’s transportation. Always communicate verbally and select one person to be in charge of the operation so that everyone is working towards the same goal. Keep people informed of any hazards, changes in direction or changes to the load.

What to Read Next:

• What are the Consequences of Poor Manual Handling?
• How Online Retail is Changing Manual Handling Practices
• How to Build Relationships in Construction
• Manual Handling Training: What are the Regulations?
• Manual Handling Quiz
• What Does TILE Stand For? The TILE & LITE Acronyms
• Manual Handling Techniques & Tips
• Manual Handling Training

The post Team Manual Handling Tips appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

For example, hoists can be used in care homes to raise people that have fallen, help them to stand, help them to move, lift them into and out of bed or into or out of the bath.

However, it is important that safe working procedures are followed during hoisting to avoid accidents that could result in serious or fatal injuries.

Need a Training Course?

Our Moving and Handling of People in Residential Care course is suitable for anyone who works in a health and social care setting. If you’re using specialist equipment, such as hoists, it’s essential that you understand how to carry out the task safely and correctly.

Tips for Using Hoists Safely

• Choose the right size sling – selection of the wrong size sling can result in discomfort if the sling is too small or the person slipping through if it is too large.
• Use the right hoist for the task – the wrong type of hoist or sling can result in inadequate support and a risk of falling.
• Inspect the equipment regularly – equipment can fail due to lack of maintenance or inspection, so make sure that you check it regularly. The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) require employers to make sure that lifting equipment is inspected and examined thoroughly at 6-month intervals.
• Don’t leave people unattended – do not leave a person unattended in a hoist in case they have an accident.
• Use the hoist correctly – failing to use a harness, belt or attachment appropriately can cause injury.
• Ensure the person in the hoist is comfortable – some slings come with different length loops in order to increase comfort or the range of positions. Choose the correct loop so that the person is not at risk of slipping and use the same loop configuration on both sides to reduce the risk of sideways falling or overturning.

It is also important that you tailor your use of hoists according to the individual. Each person’s care plan should specify:

• Which hoist to use for each task.
• The type and size of sling to use.
• Any individual configurations of loops or leg attachments.
• The use of any additional safety devices, such as safety belts.
• The number of carers needed to carry out the task.

This information must be communicated to staff and kept accessible for easy reference.

Further Resources:

• What is the Optimum Ergonomic Approach to Manual Handling of People?
• What are Moving and Handling Policies in Health and Social Care: Guidance on Equipment
• Moving and Handling of People in Residential Care
• Care Home Risk Assessment: Free Template
• Fire Safety in Care Homes Checklist
• Introduction to Safeguarding Adults Training

The post Manual Handling in Care Homes: Using Hoists Safely appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

• Manual Handling Weight Limits: What are the Safe Lifting Guidelines and Techniques?
• Techniques for Pulling, Pushing, & Lifting
• Manual Handling Training: What are the Regulations?
• What Does TILE Stand For? The TILE & LITE Acronyms
• Team Manual Handling Tips
• 40 Warehouse Safety Tips
• What are the Consequences of Poor Manual Handling?
• Manual Handling Techniques & Tips
• Manual Handling Training

The post Manual Handling Quiz appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.