Whether it is people or any inanimate objects being moved, it is extremely important that the best of practices and exercises are to be followed for manual handling as this can negatively affect the person being moved or even the person doing the moving of another person. Manual handling is not only about the moving of people and inanimate objects, but it is also to be cautious and to not do any harm.

What does it mean to move people?

At healthcare facilities it is a daily occurrence to assist with the manual handling of people and patients whether it is to help the patient stand up or moving them from a bed to a wheelchair or even just to assist with getting an individual in and out of the patient bed.

Thorough training and practicing different techniques will assist all workers in healthcare to move and handle patients without straining or injuring either party.

What are inanimate objects and what does it mean to move inanimate objects?

This refers to the moving and handling of any objects which are motionless or non-living components which are boxes, equipment or furniture. Mandatory training would provide various techniques to learn how to move what in a certain way for any specific reason.

What is poor moving or handling practices?

Without the relevant and necessary information and training, the correct way or techniques may not be implemented and can lead to:

-Musculoskeletal disorders and/ or back pains or injuries

-Handling and moving accidents may occur

-Discomfort and indignity may arise

The above may affect either the patient or the healthcare professional doing the move.

What equipment are used for manual handling of people and inanimate objects?

Hoists are the most common choice of equipment but not the only way or form of equipment to assist with the manual handling of patients or objects easier; other equipment includes:

1. Slings: Bath slings, toilet slings, transfer slings
2. Transfer Boards: moving people between furniture or beds
3. Slide Sheets: Moving without dragging
4. Electrical Profiling Beds: adjustable positions and height to fit each person’s individual needs
5. Handling Belts: Support of patient’s weight
6. Bed Levers: limiting the risk or fear of falling
7. Turning Aids
8. Wheelchairs

What are the relevant legislations regarding Manual Handling and Moving of People and Inanimate objects?

-Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 (HSWA)

-Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (MHOR) (as amended 2002)

-The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999

-Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER)

-Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER)

Just a note:

Doing an online CSTF – Manual Handling and Moving of People and Inanimate Objects Levels 1 & 2 with Train Healthcare, which takes approximately 1 hour to complete, will earn you 1 CPD Point. Once you have completed the course, you would receive a certificate thereof.

We offer a face-to-face course as well which is a half day course.