Manual Handling refers to the process of transporting or supporting of a load by hand or bodily force. This may be a person or an object. To create a safe environment for all staff, patients and visitors, manual handling should be avoided when possible if the option of using other techniques or equipment is feasible. Where it is necessary to undertake manual handling activities, suitable and sufficient assessment of all such operations should be carried out, and appropriate steps should be taken to reduce the risk of injury. Anybody undertaking manual handling activities should be provided with suitable information, instruction and training. When moving patients, an assessment should be made to look at the patient’s mobility and their ability to carry out moving and handling activities. These should be regularly reviewed, as the risks are dynamic. Also, you should always remember that not all patients need assistance and that you should aim to facilitate independent movement as much as possible. In some situations, it may be necessary to use equipment to aid a movement. For example, slide sheets can be used to reposition an immobile patient without the need to lift them, significantly reducing the risk of back injuries.
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