Employee Factsheet: Manual Handling

Avoiding Manual Handling

Staff should always check whether they need to move a load at all.

For example, staff should ask the following questions.

• Does a large item really need to be moved or can the activity safely be done where the item already is?

• Can the item to be moved be divided up into smaller parts?

• Can the treatment be taken to the service user, rather than moving the service user to it?

• Can supplies be delivered directly to their point of use or storage area?

Staff should consider using manual handling aids whenever possible.

Good Handling Technique for Lifting

Staff should consider the following good practice techniques before lifting.