Makindo Medical Notes

Health & Safety at work is about protecting NHS staff, patients, and visitors from harm. Manual handling is a core part of this — as moving patients, equipment, and supplies can cause serious injury if done incorrectly.

⚖️ Legal Duties

• Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 – employers must provide safe systems of work.
• Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 – avoid hazardous lifting where possible; assess and reduce risk where unavoidable.
• Employees must take care of themselves and others, follow training, and use equipment provided.

🚨 Common Risks in the NHS

• Back injuries and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) from lifting patients or heavy objects.
• Slips, trips, and falls in clinical and non-clinical areas.
• Injuries from pushing/pulling trolleys, beds, or wheelchairs.
• Fatigue or rushing in emergencies leading to unsafe practice.

🧍 Principles of Safe Manual Handling (TILE)

• 👤 Task – what is being done? Can the task be avoided or equipment used?
• 📦 Individual – is the staff member fit, trained, and capable?
• 📍 Load – what is the size, weight, and stability of the object/patient?
• 🏥 Environment – is the area clear, well lit, and free of hazards?

💪 Good Handling Techniques

• Plan the lift ➝ clear obstacles, get help if needed.
• Keep feet apart for stability, bend knees not your back.
• Hold the load close to your body, avoid twisting.
• Push rather than pull when moving loads.
• Use equipment (hoists, slide sheets, transfer boards) wherever possible.

🤕 Red Flags – Stop & Seek Help

• 🚑 Patient too heavy or unable to cooperate safely.
• 📦 Object unstable, awkward, or too heavy.
• ⛔ Narrow corridors, wet floors, or obstructions making lifting unsafe.

⚙️ Equipment You May Use

• 🛏️ Hoists (mobile and ceiling-mounted)
• 🛷 Slide sheets for patient transfers
• 📏 Transfer boards
• 🪑 Handling belts and standing aids
• 🚑 Adjustable beds, trolleys, and height-adjustable chairs

📋 Staff Responsibilities

• Attend mandatory training and refreshers.
• Report faulty equipment immediately.
• Use equipment correctly and follow Trust policy.
• Encourage a “no lifting” culture – unsafe lifts must not be attempted.

🧾 Summary

• Health & Safety is about preventing avoidable harm.
• Manual handling is one of the biggest causes of staff sickness absence in the NHS.
• Follow TILE, use equipment, and never take risks with lifting.

📚 References & Further Learning

• HSE: Manual Handling
• NHS: Preventing Back Pain
• HSE: Moving & Handling in Healthcare