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Manual handling injuries can cause lasting pain and disrupt your ability to work and live comfortably. If your injury was caused by unsafe lifting, poor training, or employer negligence, you have the right to claim.
At Claims 24 Hours, we help injured workers secure fair compensation with no upfront costs.
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Manual Handling Injuries – Know Your Rights
Manual handling injuries are among the most common causes of workplace harm in the UK. These injuries often result from lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, or moving loads without proper training or safety measures in place. While many people perform manual tasks daily, employers have a legal duty to ensure work-related manual handling is carried out safely.
If you have suffered an injury at work due to manual handling and it was not your fault, you may be entitled to claim compensation. This applies whether the injury happened suddenly or developed gradually over time.
What Is a Manual Handling Injury?
Manual handling injuries occur when physical tasks place excessive strain on the body. These injuries may result from a single accident or from repeated movements over weeks, months, or even years.
Manual handling includes:
- Lifting and lowering items
- Carrying loads over distances
- Pushing or pulling heavy objects
- Supporting people or animals
- Repetitive physical tasks
Under the Manual Handling Operations Regulations, employers must reduce risks, provide proper training, and carry out risk assessments.
Common Causes of Manual Handling Accidents
Manual handling accidents are among the most common causes of workplace injuries in the UK, and in many cases, they are entirely preventable. These accidents usually occur when employers fail to properly assess risks, provide adequate training, or put effective safety measures in place. When manual handling tasks are not managed correctly, even routine lifting or carrying can result in serious injury.
A frequent cause of manual handling accidents is the lack of proper training. Employees are often expected to lift, carry, push, or pull loads without being taught safe techniques. Unsafe lifting methods, such as bending incorrectly or twisting while carrying weight, significantly increase the risk of injury. Accidents also occur when workers are required to handle heavy, bulky, or awkward loads on their own instead of being given assistance or mechanical aids.
Poor workplace layout is another major factor. Narrow spaces, uneven flooring, poor lighting, or cluttered walkways can make manual handling tasks more dangerous. Repetitive tasks without adequate rest breaks can place ongoing strain on the body, leading to injuries that develop gradually over time. Faulty, unsuitable, or poorly maintained equipment further increases the risk, especially when lifting aids are unavailable or not fit for purpose.
In many cases, employers fail to carry out proper risk assessments or ignore the findings altogether. Workers may also be placed under pressure to work quickly or meet unrealistic targets, encouraging unsafe practices and shortcuts. If your injury occurred due to any of these issues, employer negligence may have played a role, and you may be entitled to make a claim.
Common causes include:
- Lack of manual handling training
- Unsafe lifting techniques
- Handling heavy or awkward loads alone
- Poor workplace layout
- Repetitive tasks without rest breaks
- Faulty or unsuitable equipment
- Failure to carry out risk assessments
- Pressure to work quickly or meet targets
If any of these factors contributed to your injury, employer negligence may be involved.
Types of Manual Handling Injuries
Manual handling injuries can affect different areas of the body and may range from minor strains to severe, life-changing conditions. Some injuries occur suddenly, while others develop gradually through repeated strain or overuse. Without timely treatment, many of these injuries can worsen and have long-term consequences.
Back injuries are among the most common manual handling injuries and can include muscle damage, slipped discs, nerve compression, and spinal injuries. Muscle strains and ligament sprains often affect the back, shoulders, and legs, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Repetitive strain injuries, commonly known as RSI, frequently impact the hands, wrists, and arms due to repeated lifting or handling tasks.
Manual handling accidents can also result in injuries to the shoulders, neck, and knees, particularly when lifting awkward loads or working in confined spaces. Hernias may develop over time due to repeated strain or improper lifting techniques. In more serious incidents, workers may suffer crush injuries to the hands or feet if loads are dropped or shift unexpectedly. Trips and falls while carrying items can lead to fractures, head injuries, or soft tissue damage.
Some manual handling injuries result in chronic pain, limited movement, or permanent disability, affecting both work and everyday life. If you have suffered any of these injuries due to unsafe working conditions or lack of proper support, you may have the right to seek compensation.
Common injuries include:
- Back injuries, including slipped discs and spinal damage
- Muscle strains and ligament sprains
- Repetitive strain injuries (RSI) affecting hands and arms
- Shoulder, neck, and knee injuries
- Hernias caused by repeated strain
- Crush injuries to hands or feet
- Trips and falls while carrying loads
Some injuries may result in long-term pain, reduced mobility, or permanent disability.
Industries Where Manual Handling Injuries Are Common
Manual handling injuries occur across many sectors, including:
- Construction and building sites
- Warehouses and factories
- Healthcare and care homes
- Agriculture and farming
- Retail and logistics
- Offices and commercial premises
- Manufacturing and industrial environments
No matter your industry, your employer must protect your health and safety.
Can I Claim If My Injury Developed Over Time?
Yes. Many manual handling injuries are cumulative, meaning they develop gradually due to repeated strain. You can still make a claim as long as:
- Your work caused or contributed to the injury
- Your employer failed to take reasonable precautions
- You became aware of the link within the last three years
The time limit usually starts from the date you realised your condition was work-related.
Do I Need a Solicitor to Claim?
You are not legally required to use a solicitor, but doing so significantly increases your chances of success. Employers’ insurers are experienced and may offer less than your claim is worth. A specialist solicitor ensures your claim is handled properly and fairly.
What Should I Do After a Manual Handling Injury?
If you have suffered a manual handling injury at work, taking the right steps as early as possible can significantly strengthen your claim. First, report the injury to your employer or supervisor as soon as it occurs, even if the injury seems minor at the time. Many manual handling injuries worsen over time, and early reporting helps create an official record of what happened.
Make sure the incident is recorded in the workplace accident book and that the details accurately reflect how the injury occurred. Seek medical attention promptly, whether through your GP, A&E, or occupational health, and follow any recommended treatment. Medical records provide vital evidence linking your injury to the manual handling accident.
It is also important to keep a detailed record of your symptoms and how the injury affects your ability to work and carry out daily activities. Retain receipts and documentation for any expenses you incur as a result of the injury, such as travel costs, medication, physiotherapy, or loss of earnings. Contacting a legal adviser as soon as possible allows evidence to be preserved, deadlines to be met, and your claim to be assessed accurately. Early action can make a significant difference to the success of your manual handling injury claim.
- Report the injury to your employer
- Ensure it is recorded in the accident book
- Seek medical attention
- Keep records of symptoms and expenses
- Contact a legal adviser as soon as possible
Early action strengthens your claim.
Will I Have to Go to Court?
In the vast majority of manual handling injury claims, court proceedings are not required. Most cases are resolved through negotiation with the employer’s insurers once liability and evidence have been established. This process is designed to be as straightforward and stress-free as possible for the injured worker.
If a court appearance were ever necessary, you would be fully supported at every stage and clearly informed about what to expect. However, it is important to understand that court cases are rare, and the goal is always to secure fair compensation without the need for formal legal proceedings.
No Win, No Fee Manual Handling Claims
Claims 24 Hours offers manual handling injury claims on a No Win, No Fee basis, allowing you to pursue compensation without financial risk. There are no upfront fees to pay, and if your claim is unsuccessful, you will not be required to pay anything at all.
If your claim succeeds, the success fee is capped by law and clearly explained to you from the outset, ensuring complete transparency. There are no hidden charges or unexpected costs. This arrangement means you can focus on your recovery while experienced legal professionals handle your claim and work to secure the compensation you deserve.
What Compensation Can Cover
A successful manual handling injury claim can include compensation for:
- Pain and suffering
- Reduced quality of life
- Loss of earnings
- Medical treatment and physiotherapy
- Travel expenses
- Future care or support needs
Each case is assessed individually to ensure fair compensation.
How the Manual Handling Claims Process Works
Starting a claim is simpler than many people expect.
Free initial consultation
No win, no fee agreement
Medical assessment arranged
Evidence gathered on your behalf
Negotiation with insurers
Compensation secured without court in most cases
Most claims are settled without the need to attend court.
Why Choose Claims 24 Hours
Experienced Claims Specialists
At Claims 24 Hours, your case is handled by experienced claims specialists who understand UK accident and injury law. We carefully assess every detail of your situation to ensure your claim is strong, accurate, and properly supported from the very beginning.
No Win, No Fee Support
We operate on a no win, no fee basis, meaning you do not pay anything upfront. This allows you to pursue your claim without financial pressure, giving you peace of mind while we focus on achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
Fast and Hassle-Free Process
Our goal is to make the claims process as smooth and stress-free as possible. We take care of all the paperwork, communication, and legal coordination so you can focus on your recovery while we manage your claim efficiently.
Personal Case Management
Every claim is important to us, which is why we provide personal case management. You will receive dedicated support, clear guidance, and regular updates so you always know where your claim stands and what to expect next.
UK-Wide Service
Claims 24 Hours assists clients across the UK, regardless of where the accident occurred. Our nationwide reach ensures that help is always accessible, with a responsive team ready to support you at every stage of your claim.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I know if I am eligible to make a claim?
You may be eligible to make a claim if you were injured due to someone else’s negligence or fault. Our team will review the circumstances of your accident during a free consultation and advise you honestly on whether you have a valid claim.
How long do I have to make a claim?
In most UK personal injury cases, you have up to three years from the date of the accident to start a claim. Certain situations may have different time limits, which is why it is always recommended to seek advice as early as possible.
Will I need to attend court?
The majority of claims are resolved without the need to attend court. If court involvement becomes necessary, you will be fully informed and supported throughout the process so you are never left uncertain or unprepared.
How long does the claims process take?
The time required to complete a claim depends on its complexity and the cooperation of the other party. Straightforward cases may settle within a few months, while more complex claims can take longer to resolve fairly.
What compensation can I claim for?
Compensation can include medical expenses, loss of earnings, rehabilitation costs, and compensation for pain and suffering. Each claim is assessed individually to ensure the compensation reflects the true impact of the injury on your life.