Manual handling for healthcare professionals

Summarising the key principles

This learning resource provides a summary of the principles of moving and handling.

The key messages include:

• Undertake a Risk assessment (TILE).
• Work upright and keep the load close to prevent injury
• Use the correct equipment.
• Ensure you and your patient are kept safe.

This resource also reviews the legislation (RIDDOR, LOLER and PUWER) that you must follow while at work.

The term 'manual handling' refers to moving objects and 'moving and handling' when moving and handling people and referencing legislation. When moving and handling people, several different terms can be used such as 'patient', 'service user', 'client', 'customer' or 'resident'. The term 'patient' is used as a reference for the person being handled.