Faircloughs Solicitors have over 60 Years of Experience in handling Personal Injury Claims. Call now on 01942 665700
Faircloughs Solicitors are personal injury specialists
Manual Handling Accidents
Manual Handling Injuries
Some of the most common manual handling injuries in the workplace include musculoskeletal disorders such as lower back pain and wrist injuries.
It is vital that good workplace procedures are set up to prevent injuries to workers through manual handling. Identifying hazards and ensuring good lifting technique for items which can be safely carried are good ways to prevent injuries.
If workers need to do manual handling for their work, the following things may cause them strain. Look for these red flags and address them immediately with better procedures:
Heavy Lifting, Pushing, Pulling, or Gripping
Positions which are unnatural or awkward, such as over-reaching, arching and twisting, any activities which cause vibrations to the hands, arms or body repetitive or sustained movements the length of time workers must sustain tasks for (i.e. without taking a break)
If workers are undertaking manual tasks, they risk doing damage to their back. It is essential to have adequate safety procedures in place and to educate all workers on how to undertake their tasks safely.
Making A Claim
If you think you have a claim you will need expert legal advice from a firm of solicitors who are experienced in handling compensation claims for manual handling injuries.
Contact us
Manual Handling Claims: Accidents and the Compensation You Deserve
Manual handling accidents are a leading cause of workplace injuries in the UK, resulting in significant pain, suffering, and financial loss for thousands of workers each year. Employers are required to carry out a risk assessment for manual handling tasks to identify and minimize potential hazards, and it is important to minimize manual handling as much as possible to prevent injuries.
From lower back pain to severe musculoskeletal disorders, these injuries can have long-lasting effects on your health and livelihood. More serious injuries tend to result in higher compensation amounts, making proper assessment of injury severity crucial. If you’ve been injured due to improper manual handling at work, you may be entitled to compensation.
With over 60 years of experience, Faircloughs Solicitors are dedicated to helping you navigate the claims process and secure the compensation you deserve. Call us now on 01942 665700 for a free consultation.
Understanding Manual Handling Injuries
Manual handling injuries occur when individuals lift, carry, push, pull, or move objects in a way that strains their body. Being injured in manual handling tasks is a common cause of musculoskeletal disorder, which can result from repetitive strain or improper technique and may lead to permanent disability if not properly addressed. These injuries are among the most common workplace accidents and can range from minor sprains to serious conditions like herniated discs or chronic pain. Common types include:
- Lower back pain: Often caused by improper lifting techniques or lifting heavy loads.
- Wrist and hand injuries: Such as carpal tunnel syndrome from repetitive movements.
- Shoulder injuries: From lifting or carrying heavy objects.
- Knee and leg injuries: From slipping or tripping while handling loads.
If you have been injured in manual handling at work, it is important to contact work solicitors for advice to ensure you receive expert guidance and support with your claim.
These injuries can lead to long-term disability, reduced quality of life, and significant financial burdens due to medical costs and lost wages.
Industries Most Affected by Manual Handling Injuries
Certain industries are particularly prone to manual handling injuries due to the physically demanding nature of their tasks. These include:
- Construction and Warehousing: Heavy lifting and moving of materials are routine.
- Transportation and Storage: Loading and unloading goods often involve manual handling.
- Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing: Physically demanding tasks increase injury risk.
- Health and Social Work: Moving patients or heavy equipment is common.
- Retail: Stacking shelves and handling inventory can lead to repetitive strain.
- Offices: Improper ergonomics may cause injuries over time.
According to force survey LFS data and in addition Labour Force Survey findings, these sectors consistently report higher rates of manual handling injuries, highlighting the importance of targeted prevention strategies.
Legal experts have experience supporting injured workers to support their claims in these industries, helping them secure compensation by applying their knowledge of health and safety law.
Workers in these sectors are at higher risk, but proper training and risk assessments can prevent many injuries.
Employer’s Responsibilities and Risk Assessments
Employers have a legal duty to protect employees from manual handling injuries under regulations such as the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 and Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting regular risk assessments to identify hazards.
- Providing training on safe lifting techniques and equipment use.
- Supplying appropriate tools (e.g., trolleys, hoists) to minimize manual handling.
- Ensuring a safe work environment with clear pathways and adequate lighting.
If you experience a manual handling injury, it is important to report the incident to your health and safety representative. Ensure the representative logs the incident in the workplace accident book or official records for proper documentation. For guidance and support, use our manual handling claim contact to speak directly with a specialist about your situation.
Failure to meet these obligations can make employers liable for injuries. For instance, if you’re asked to lift heavy loads without training or equipment, your employer may be negligent.
Making a Claim for Manual Handling Injuries
If you’ve suffered a manual handling injury at work, you may be eligible to claim compensation. Follow these steps to strengthen your case and improve your chances of a successful claim:
- Seek Medical Attention: Get treated and keep records of all medical visits.
- Report the Incident: Inform your employer immediately and document their response.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of the scene, collect witness statements, and retain relevant documents (e.g., risk assessments). For a successful claim, it is crucial to save all receipts related to your injury—this includes medical expenses, travel costs, and any other out-of-pocket expenses. Practicing manual handling injury save by keeping receipts and documentation will help support your case. Remember, handling injury save receipts can provide essential evidence for your claim.
- Contact a Solicitor: A personal injury solicitor can guide you through the claims process.
At Faircloughs Solicitors, we specialize in manual handling injury claims, with over 60 years of experience representing clients in industries like construction, healthcare, and retail. We operate on a no win, no fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. Contact us today to start your claim.
What Compensation Can You Claim?
If you are considering making a manual handling compensation claim, you may be wondering how much compensation you could be entitled to. The amount will depend on the severity of your injury and the specific circumstances of your case. More serious injuries typically result in higher compensation, so it is important to have your injury properly assessed.
Injury compensation your lawyer can help by assessing the full extent of your damages and providing guidance on potential settlement amounts.
Successful claims may cover:
- Medical expenses, including treatment and prescription costs, as part of your manual handling compensation claim.
- Lost wages or income due to time off work, which can be recovered through a compensation claim.
- Pain, suffering, and loss of quality of life.
- Travel costs, such as hospital parking fees.
Our solicitors have a strong track record of winning manual handling injury claims and will work to maximize your compensation, ensuring all losses are accounted for.
Why Choose Faircloughs Solicitors?
With decades of experience, Faircloughs Solicitors are the trusted choice for personal injury claims. Here’s why:
- Proven Expertise: Our specialist solicitors have extensive experience in handling claims for manual handling injuries, representing major unions and winning numerous cases.
- No Win, No Fee: Pursue your claim without financial risk.
- Personalised Support: We provide dedicated legal assistance and guidance throughout your claim, backed by our expertise in UK health and safety law.
- Maximum Compensation: We fight to recover all eligible losses, including pain and suffering.
Don’t settle for less. Choose Faircloughs for expert legal representation and peace of mind.
Preventing Manual Handling Injuries at Work
Preventing manual handling injuries at work starts with a proactive approach to safety. Employers must manage risks associated with manual handling tasks by carrying out thorough risk assessments, as required by the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992.
These risk assessments help identify potential hazards and determine the safest way to perform manual handling activities. Providing proper training is essential, ensuring that all employees understand safe lifting techniques and know how to use any equipment provided.
Adhering to health and safety guidelines and using appropriate safety equipment can significantly reduce the risk of handling injuries at work. Employees also play a vital role by reporting any dangerous manual handling practices and cooperating with their employer to maintain a safe environment.
By working together and prioritizing risk assessments and proper training, both employers and employees can help prevent manual handling injuries and create a safer workplace for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a manual handling injury?A manual handling injury is any injury sustained while lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, or moving objects at work.
How do I know if I have a claim?If your injury resulted from your employer’s negligence (e.g., lack of training or equipment), you may be eligible to make a manual handling claim. Our team can guide you through the process and assess your eligibility.
What evidence do I need?Evidence includes medical records, witness statements, photos of the accident scene, and employer risk assessment documents. Consulting specialist personal injury law experts can help you gather and present the right evidence for your claim.
How long does a claim take?Claim duration varies, but our personal injury lawyers work to resolve cases efficiently while securing maximum compensation. Minor injuries may take 6–12 months.
What if my claim was previously denied?If another solicitor rejected your case, we can review it for free and explore your options.
Contact Us
Ready to claim the compensation you deserve? Contact Faircloughs Solicitors today:
- Call: 01942 665700 or 01942 724928
- Visit: www.faircloughs.net
- Free Consultation: No win, no fee—no worries!
Don’t let a workplace injury define your future. With Faircloughs Solicitors, you can focus on recovery while we handle the legal process. Call now to start your journey toward justice.