Lifting Heavy Objects

Last updated on February 6th, 2019 at 03:48 pm

Where can heavy lifting cause injury?

When lifting objects that are too heavy, the main source of pressure is on your back. But, whilst that can be the main place that injuries are caused, it is by no means the only kind of injury you can suffer. Here are the most common:

• Spinal injuries. When lifting heavy objects, especially those which are dangerously heavy, a significant amount of pressure is put on the back. This can lead to injuries such as pinched nerves, herniated discs and other injuries of the spine.
• Muscle injuries. Damage to your muscles can occur through a period of time or instantly. If you are experiencing back pain which has begun gradually, this could still have been caused by your exposure to heavy lifting. Common muscle injuries that can occur include tendonitis, muscle pulls/strains and tearing of the muscle.
• Lifting heavy objects can cause exhaustion. This can lead to falls that can result in being crushed by the heavy object or breaks/fractures.

Should this have been prevented?

Both you and your employer have a responsibility when it comes to heavy lifting in the workplace. Your employer must:

• Avoid putting employees in situations which involve hazardous manual lifting operations as much as is reasonable.
• Assess the nature of the heavy lifting required and put measures in place to prevent injury.

Further information with regards to the responsibilities involved in manual handling can be found at the official health and safety executive website.

I’m injured, what can I do?

You can talk to us. Give our personal injury team a call on 0114 272 9184 for a friendly, confidential chat about your injury.

If you are struggling emotionally with your injury you can also read our article on why people shouldn’t feel guilty about claiming from their employers.