Manual Handling Injury Claims

Lifting, carrying, pushing or moving items is part of many people’s everyday work. While some manual tasks may seem routine, they can lead to serious injuries if the correct equipment, training or safety measures are not in place.

A manual handling injury can leave you dealing with pain, time away from work and uncertainty about what to do next. If your injury happened because your employer did not take reasonable steps to keep you safe, Watson Woodhouse can help you understand whether you may be able to make a claim.

Free Initial Discussion

For a no-obligation discussion, call our specialist Personal Injury Solicitors on 01642 247656, email us at info@watsonwoodhouse.co.uk or use our contact form, and we will call you back.

What Is a Manual Handling Injury Claim?

A manual handling injury claim is a claim that can be made if you have been injured while lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling or moving something at work and the accident happened because the risks were not properly managed.

Employers have a responsibility to consider the risks involved in manual handling tasks and take reasonable steps to protect employees. This may include providing suitable equipment, carrying out risk assessments, offering training and making sure tasks are carried out safely.

What Types of Manual Handling Injuries Can Lead to a Claim?

Manual handling injuries can happen in many different workplaces, including warehouses, construction sites, offices, healthcare settings, factories and retail environments. Examples of accidents that may lead to a claim include:

• Lifting heavy items without suitable equipment or assistance
• Being asked to carry out tasks that are unsafe or beyond your capability
• Lack of training on safe lifting techniques
• Poorly planned work tasks or unsafe working conditions
• Moving items that are too heavy, awkward or unstable
• Repeated manual tasks causing strain or injury over time
• Defective lifting equipment or workplace aids

Even if manual handling is a regular part of your job, employers still have a responsibility to reduce unnecessary risks.

Can I Make a Claim for a Manual Handling Injury at Work?

You may be able to make a claim if you were injured at work because your employer failed to take reasonable steps to protect you. This may include situations where:

• You were not given suitable training or instructions
• A risk assessment was not carried out or followed
• Equipment or assistance was not provided
• You were expected to complete an unsafe task
• Your workplace conditions increased the risk of injury

Every situation is different, and we can talk through what happened and help you understand whether you may have a claim. Call our specialist Personal Injury Solicitors on 01642 247656, email us at info@watsonwoodhouse.co.uk or use our contact form, and we will call you back.

What Injuries Can Be Caused by Manual Handling?

Manual handling accidents can cause a range of injuries, including:

• Back injuries
• Neck and shoulder injuries
• Muscle strains and soft tissue injuries
• Slipped discs
• Joint injuries
• Ligament and tendon damage
• Repetitive strain injuries
• Long-term pain and mobility problems

Some injuries may improve with treatment and rest, while others can affect your ability to work and carry out everyday activities.

What Should I Do After a Manual Handling Injury at Work?

Following a manual handling injury, your health should always come first. If you can, there are a few steps you can take that may also help if you decide to make a claim in the future. These include:

• Report the accident to your employer as soon as possible
• Ask for the incident to be recorded in the accident book
• Seek medical advice
• Take photos of the area or any equipment involved
• Make a note of any witnesses
• Keep medical records and details of any time off work or financial losses

Will Making a Claim Affect My Job?

It is understandable to worry that making a claim will affect your job, especially if you still work for the same employer.

In most cases, a workplace injury claim is dealt with through your employer’s insurance rather than directly with the person responsible for managing you. You should not be treated unfairly for making a genuine claim after being injured at work.

If you have concerns, we can discuss them with you before you decide how to proceed.

How Much Compensation Could I Receive?

The amount of compensation you can receive depends on the injury you have suffered and how it has affected your life. A claim may include compensation for:

• Pain and suffering caused by your injury
• Lost earnings
• Medical treatment and rehabilitation
• Travel expenses
• Care or support you have needed
• Any longer-term impact on your ability to work

Once we understand your circumstances, we can explain what your claim may include.

How Long Do I Have to Make a Manual Handling Injury Claim?

In most cases, you have three years from the date of your accident to start a personal injury claim.

There are some exceptions, including claims involving children or people who do not have mental capacity. It is usually best to seek advice sooner rather than later, as details and evidence can be easier to gather while they are still fresh.

Why Choose Watson Woodhouse Solicitors?

We understand that a manual handling injury can affect much more than your physical health. You may be worried about your recovery, returning to work or how your injury will affect your everyday life.

Watson Woodhouse Solicitors has been supporting clients for over 30 years. Our Personal Injury team will take the time to listen to what has happened, explain your options in plain English and guide you through the process with clear, practical advice.

We are here to help you understand your options and decide what feels right for you.

Contact Us

If you have a manual handling injury, Watson Woodhouse Solicitors can help. For a no-obligation discussion, call our specialist Personal Injury Solicitors on 01642 247656, email us at info@watsonwoodhouse.co.uk or use our contact form, and we will call you back.