It is estimated that 4.9 million working days (full-day equivalent) were lost in through MSDs in the past year mainly affecting the back that were caused or made worse by work. On average, each person suffering took an estimated 18.7 days off in that 12 month period.

Manual handling covers a wide variety of tasks including lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling and carrying. If any of these tasks are not carried out safely then there is a risk of injury. More than a third of all reported injuries which result in someone being off work for more than 3 days are caused by manual handling.

Manual handling injuries can occur almost anywhere, when people are at work or at home. Heavy manual labour, awkward postures and previous or existing injury can increase the risk.

Manual handling injuries can have serious implications for both the employer and the person who has been injured. Employers may have to bear substantial costs, for example for retraining, wages, overtime and civil liability. The injured person may find that their lifestyle, leisure activities, ability to sleep and job prospects are affected.