This page is about the practice of manually handling INANIMATE objects – so whilst many of the basic principles apply to the moving and lifting of people, you need to discuss your training needs for that with clinically trained personnel – OTs, School Nurses, etc.
Everyone carries out some form of manual handling at some stage in their working life. These tasks or activities must be assessed and employers need to ensure that employees are doing it safely.
In 2017 a Labour Force Survey showed that the rate of self reported work-related musculoskeletal disorders showed a downward trend which is good news, but there are still half a million people each year who are affected by these types of injuries.
Manual handling, awkward or tiring positions and keyboard work or repetitive action are estimated to be the main causes of work-related musculoskeletal disorders.
The documents on this page will assist you to risk assess all manual handling tasks. Please read the guidance document specifically for schools before anything else (CALLED MANUAL HANDLING GUIDANCE FOR SUFFOLK SCHOOLS – PLEASE READ FIRST) and then refer to all the HSE documents as necessary.
Face to face training is available but is sporadic due to the trainers’ time capacity. Nina is available for short drop in visits and basic advice if needed until the training is available.
HSE guidance on back pain can be found at: https://www.hse.gov.uk/msd/backpain/index.htm and general musculoskeletal disorders at: https://www.hse.gov.uk/msd/index.htm.
The NHS gives advice on back pain here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/back-pain/
Any queries please contact Nina at [email protected]
Body mapping questionnaire for employers and employees
Checklists for manual handling full assessment
Manual Handling at Work – Corporate SCC guidance
Manual Handling guidance for Suffolk Schools – PLEASE READ FIRST
Risk filter tool – HSE guidance
The Manual Handling Operations Regulations
The Manual Handling Operations Regulations – A brief guide – HSE document