Manual handling is one of the most common causes of workplace injury. Tasks such as lifting, carrying, pushing or pulling objects can place significant strain on the body, particularly where work is carried out repeatedly or without appropriate support.

Unlike some workplace accidents, manual handling injuries do not always occur as a single incident. In many cases, they develop over time as a result of ongoing strain or repeated tasks.

Where appropriate steps are not taken to manage these risks, injuries can occur. If this happens, it may be possible to bring a personal injury claim.

What is manual handling?

Manual handling includes a wide range of workplace activities involving physical effort.

This may include:

• lifting or lowering objects
• carrying or moving loads
• pushing or pulling equipment
• repetitive physical tasks
• handling items in awkward or confined spaces

These types of tasks can arise in many working environments, including warehouses, construction sites, healthcare settings, retail and office roles.

How manual handling injuries happen

Manual handling injuries often occur where risks are not properly assessed or controlled.

Common causes include:

• lifting heavy or awkward loads without assistance
• repetitive tasks carried out over long periods
• poor working posture or restricted movement
• lack of appropriate equipment to assist with lifting
• inadequate training or supervision
• being required to carry out tasks beyond reasonable physical limits

In some cases, the issue is not a single unsafe action, but the overall way work is organised.

Employers’ responsibilities for manual handling

Employers and those responsible for managing work activities are required to take reasonable steps to reduce the risk of injury.

This may include:

• assessing manual handling risks
• avoiding unnecessary manual handling where possible
• providing suitable equipment, such as lifting aids
• ensuring staff receive appropriate training
• organising work to minimise strain and repetitive injury

Where these steps are not taken and an injury occurs, responsibility may arise.

The impact of manual handling injuries

Manual handling injuries can affect a person’s ability to work and carry out everyday tasks.

These may include:

• back injuries
• muscle strains and ligament damage
• joint problems
• repetitive strain injuries

In some cases, symptoms may develop gradually and worsen over time, particularly where the underlying cause is ongoing strain.

Recovery can take time, and some injuries may have a lasting effect on mobility or physical capability.

Claiming compensation for manual handling injuries

If a manual handling injury has been caused by unsafe working practices or a failure to manage risks appropriately, compensation may be available.

A claim may take into account:

• the nature and severity of the injury
• loss of earnings or time off work
• the effect on daily life
• any treatment or rehabilitation required

Each claim is assessed on its own facts, including how the work was carried out and whether appropriate controls were in place.

How our workplace accident solicitors can help

Our Personal Injury team regularly deals with manual handling claims and can assist with:

• reviewing how the work was carried out
• identifying potential failures in risk assessments or working practices
• considering who may be responsible
• gathering relevant evidence, including workplace procedures and training records
• explaining funding options, including no win no fee arrangements and Legal Expenses Insurance, where applicable

Manual handling claims often involve looking at patterns of work rather than a single incident, and we consider each case on its own facts.

What happens first?

The first step is a confidential, no‑obligation conversation.

We will listen to what has happened, explain whether a claim may be possible and outline the next steps if you decide to proceed.

There is no pressure to move forward, and any discussion can take place at a pace that feels right for you.

Time limits for manual handling claims

Personal injury claims are subject to time limits. In most cases, a claim must be started within three years of the injury or the point at which you became aware that your injury was related to your work.

Because manual handling injuries can develop over time, early consideration can help clarify how these time limits apply.

Manual handling claims – frequently asked questions

Can I claim for a back injury caused by lifting at work?

A claim may be possible where the injury was caused by unsafe lifting practices or a failure to assess and manage risks properly.

What if my injury developed gradually over time?

Manual handling claims often involve injuries that develop through repeated strain, and a claim may still be possible where working conditions contributed.

What if I was not given proper training?

Lack of appropriate training may be relevant in assessing whether reasonable steps were taken to prevent injury.

Do manual handling claims only apply to heavy lifting?

No. Injuries can also arise from repetitive tasks, poor posture or awkward working conditions.

Speak to us about a manual handling claim

If you have suffered an injury as a result of manual handling at work, we understand how this can affect your ability to work and carry out everyday activities.

An initial conversation can help you understand your position and what steps may be available, with no obligation to proceed.

Contact our Personal Injury team at Clarkson Wright & Jakes on 01689 887887 or at cwj@cwj.co.uk to discuss an electric shock or electrocution claim. 

Alternatively, you can complete our Personal Injury Calculator here.