Why is Manual Handling Training Essential?

Posted 5 years ago

A lack of Manual Handling Training is responsible for more than a third of all injuries which happen at the workplace, as well as a great deal of injuries which occur at home. The problems which can develop from bad lifting and carrying, for example, can include anything from minor aches to long-lasting musculoskeletal disorders such as pain in arms, legs and joints. Repetitive strain injuries are another major concern when handling heavy items on a regular basis and can lead to life-long mobility and comfort complications.

Why do you need the very best Manual Handling Training?

If any injuries take place at the workplace, manual handling injuries can have extremely serious implications for both the employee and the employer themselves. Injuries like these are most likely to develop in industrial areas, like warehouses, but they can also happen in places like offices and stores.

Although heavy manual labour and poor handling strategies can drastically cause health issues, there are a range of other features which can contribute to their development. For example, awkward postures and repetitive movements can also be damaging to your physical health and comfort.

In order to avoid the development of muscle pains and aches, it is important that all members of staff understand what they need to do in order to lift moderate to heavy objects effectively and without putting strain on sensitive areas of the body, such as the spine.

Things to consider when it comes to lifting and carrying in the workplace

When it comes to any form of lifting or carrying activity, you should always take a range of different features into consideration, including:

• Individual Health And Ability;
• The Nature Of The Load, Including Size And Weight;
• Environmental Conditions;
• Levels Of Training;
• Organisation In The Workplace;

If possible, try to lift heavy objects with mechanical equipment, particularly in warehouse areas. In most situations, however, you or your employees will rarely have a handy forklift or conveyor belt nearby – with that in mind; ensure that all forms of manual lifting are performed in the best and safest way possible.

Manual lifting at home or at work

• When Possible, Reduce The Amount Of Twisting, Stooping And Reaching;
• Avoid Lifting From Floor level Or Above Should Height;
• Adjust Storage Areas To Limit The Amount Of Carrying;
• Consider Breaking Down Heavy Objects, Or Splitting The Weight Between Multiple People;

Of course, these are just a few things to consider before you begin to manually lift or handle heavy components and loads. Where possible, always try to optimise your available space and ensure that there are no obstructions which will become a problem when in transit.

The cost of poor manual handling to businesses

Every year, accidents cause all kinds of injuries and can lead to an average of 20 days off for every injured employee. In many cases, particularly in trips, slips or falls from height, the employee has the potential to never fully recover.

All kinds of industries suffer huge setbacks and costs as a result of employee injury at work, and it can really hurt a business’ reputation and productivity, as well as cause lasting damage to the person in question, if the best manual handling education is not offered.

Choose iHasco for engaging and interactive Manual Handling eLearning

If you’re looking for the very best in manual handling training online, get in touch with iHasco for a free trial today! Our team are proud to offer in-depth, easily-understandable online courses regarding manual handling and many other workplace requirements. Whatever you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our experienced customer service team today, and we’ll help you to find the ideal online course for you and your employees.