How are manual handling accidents caused?
Manual handling claims account for just under 50% of all workplace accidents and commonly occur in or on building sites, farms, factories, warehouses, hotels, hospitals and care homes.
Manual handling of loads may cause a strain to your body through continuous lifting/handling activities.
Factors that can increase the risk of injury are:
- Loads being too heavy
- Loads being too large
- Loads being difficult to grasp or becoming unstable
- Tasks being too strenuous
- Tasks involving awkward postures or movements
- Work environments lacking sufficient space
Employer’s responsibility
Your employer has a duty to reduce the risk of an injury occurring whilst at work. They need to make sure that the correct training and equipment is provided to allow you to do your job safely. When manual handling work isn’t carried out correctly it can cause serious injury such as:
- Dislocated shoulders
- Fractures
- Hernias or aggravation of a hernia
- Strains and sprains
- Low back injuries
An injury caused by manual handling can unfortunately affect your day to day activities which includes the mobility that you require to allow you to work.
At Stephensons our specialist legal team will investigate your claim on your behalf to determine whether your employer has done the following:
- Provided adequate training on how to lift, carry, pull or push items
- Carried out risk assessments
- Taken steps to ensure that manual handling tasks are only completed if absolutely necessary and unavoidable
- Considered the work environment to determine whether it is suitable for manual handling to be carried out
- Organised manual handling tasks in a safe way, with loads split appropriately and suitable rest periods being provided
Our solicitors have years of experience in handling claims of this type and have the knowledge and skill set to get you or your loved one the compensation you rightfully deserve. If you would like to discuss pursuing a claim for compensation call us on 0203 816 0065 or complete our online enquiry form.
