Manual Handling Claims: A Complete Guide to Lifting and Handling Injury Compensation

Workplaces of all types present manual handling risks—whether you’re lifting heavy boxes, moving equipment, or operating in awkward positions. If you’ve sustained an injury while performing manual handling tasks at work, whether through lifting, pushing, pulling, or carrying, you may be entitled to compensation for your physical, emotional, and financial hardships.

Manual handling injuries can be life-altering. Fortunately, with the right legal support, you can pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.

How to Make a Manual Handling Injury Claim

Starting a claim after a manual handling incident might seem overwhelming—especially if you’re unfamiliar with how injury claims work. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Step 1: Book a Free Initial Consultation

The first step is to contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation. You can reach out via phone or online—whichever suits you best. We’ll arrange a time to discuss your situation and determine whether you have a strong case. If you do, we’ll explain how we can guide you through the next steps.

Step 2: Information You’ll Need to Provide

To properly assess your case and start the claim process, we’ll need some essential details, including:

• The date, time, and location of the incident

• Information about your employer or site manager

• Photos or video evidence of the task or equipment involved

• A detailed explanation of your injuries and the treatment received

• Relevant medical records (e.g. scans, physiotherapy reports, prescriptions)

• Names and contact details of any witnesses

• Any written communication with your employer or insurance provider

Once we have this information, we’ll assign your case to a solicitor experienced in manual handling claims.

What If Your Employer Doesn’t Have Insurance or Refuses to Cooperate?

If your employer is uninsured or unwilling to deal with your injury claim, there are still options available. Your solicitor may:

• Look into whether any of your existing personal or workplace policies offer cover

• Investigate third-party liability where appropriate

• Gather strong evidence to proceed with legal action through the courts

Supporting evidence—such as detailed medical reports, photos, and witness statements—can make all the difference in achieving a successful outcome.

Who Can File a Manual Handling Injury Claim?

You can make a claim if your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence—often due to poor training, unsafe procedures, or lack of proper equipment. Common causes of manual handling injuries include:

• Lifting or carrying heavy loads without assistance or aids

• Inadequate training in safe lifting techniques

• Repetitive strain from tasks involving bending or twisting

• Lack of mechanical lifting aids or personal protective equipment (PPE)

• Unsafe or cluttered working environments

• Pressure to complete tasks too quickly without proper preparation

Whether you’re a warehouse worker, healthcare employee, retail assistant, or office staff, if your injury occurred due to employer negligence, you may have grounds to claim compensation.

What Can You Claim for a Manual Handling Injury?

The value of your compensation depends on how the injury has affected your life. A successful claim can include:

• Medical costs: Including physiotherapy, GP visits, scans, and prescription medication

• Loss of earnings: Both current income lost and any future financial impact

• Pain and suffering: Physical pain, long-term discomfort, and emotional distress

• Travel expenses: Related to attending appointments or specialist consultations

• Long-term care: Where injuries lead to ongoing mobility or functional limitations

Our solicitors work with you to ensure every part of your claim is considered and maximised for full compensation.

Can I Claim on Behalf of a Family Member Injured Through Manual Handling?

Yes. If a loved one—such as a dependent, child, or partner—has suffered a manual handling injury, you can make a claim on their behalf. If they’re under the age of 18, a parent or guardian can act for them. When they reach adulthood, they can pursue a claim independently within a specific timeframe.

We treat these cases with added sensitivity and ensure the long-term recovery and support needs of the injured person are prioritised.

How Long Do Manual Handling Injury Claims Take?

The length of time required to settle a manual handling injury claim can depend on several factors:

• Liability acceptance: If fault is admitted early on, claims can resolve faster

• Severity of injuries: More serious or ongoing conditions may require extended medical evaluation

• Disputed claims: If there are disagreements over responsibility, the case may go to court

Straightforward cases may conclude within a few months, while more complex ones could take a year or longer. We’ll keep you informed throughout and make the process as smooth as possible.

Are Manual Handling Claims Different from Other Workplace Injury Cases?

Yes. Manual handling claims often involve breaches of specific health and safety regulations—particularly the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992, which require employers to assess and minimise the risks of manual handling tasks.

These claims can involve:

• Employer liability insurance

• Workplace safety compliance

• Risk assessments and training standards

• Repetitive strain or cumulative injury issues

Because of these nuances, it’s vital to work with a solicitor who understands manual handling legislation and how to build a strong case.

We’re Here to Help You Get the Compensation You Deserve

Manual handling injuries can disrupt your life—physically, emotionally, and financially. Whether you’re dealing with lost wages, ongoing treatment, or pain that affects your daily life, you shouldn’t have to manage it alone.

Our team specialises in handling manual handling compensation claims. We’re committed to supporting you from the first consultation to your final settlement, ensuring you get the outcome and financial support you need.

Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward your recovery, justice, and peace of mind.