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Manual handling at work

Learn how to reduce manual handling risks, prevent musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries and support employees to stay healthy and safe at work.

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What is manual handling?

Manual handling is any activity that involves using physical effort to lift, lower, carry, push, hold, move or support a person or object.

Examples of manual handling include moving:

  • Boxes and packages
  • Equipment and tools
  • Materials and stock
  • People receiving care or support

Manual handling is common across many industries and occupations. It is not limited to lifting heavy objects. Repetitive tasks, pushing and pulling activities, awkward postures and sustained physical effort can also increase the risk of injury.

Poor manual handling can lead to musculoskeletal (MSK) problems, including back pain, strains, sprains and other injuries that can affect employees’ health, wellbeing and ability to work.

Find out more about musculoskeletal (MSK) health in the workplace.

Page last reviewed: 28th October 2026