Manual handling at work: preventing the most common injuries

Whether you're a personal support worker, a construction worker, or even a warehouse employee, manual handling is probably part of your daily routine. And you're not alone—most jobs involve some form of handling, whether occasional or regular. But beware—these actions, often repetitive or demanding, are also a common source of injury.

What is manual handling?

We often think of manual handling as simply lifting boxes or moving objects. In reality, it’s much more complex. It involves a range of movements like lifting, pulling, pushing, carrying, or even holding an uncomfortable position for a long period.

These actions involve not only the body but also the mind: each task requires coordination, good movement strategy, and sometimes even speed of execution.

The most common injuries from manual handling

Here are some striking statistics (source: CNESST):

• Sprains, strains, and muscle tears: 71.3% of cases

• Tendinitis: 15.5%

• Back pain: in more than 54% of cases

• Shoulder and wrist injuries: also very common

The most affected sectors? Healthcare, manufacturing, construction, and retail.

Why do injuries happen?

Several factors can lead to injury:

• Lifting a load that's too heavy

• Making sudden or repetitive efforts

• Working in an uncomfortable or asymmetrical posture

• Working in a poorly adapted environment (lack of space, poor visibility, inappropriate tools)

Personal factors also play a role: physical condition, age, flexibility, or even mental fatigue can increase risk.

Better understanding for better prevention

It's essential to analyze the full context of the job: the environment, equipment used, task organization, schedules, and even performance pressure. Understanding these elements is key to putting effective, long-term solutions in place.

Three pillars of prevention

1. Using the right tools: to reduce physical strain

2. Good work organization: to avoid repetitive movements or uncomfortable positions

3. Employee training: to develop proper manual handling techniques

What to do if an accident happens? 

Even with every precaution, accidents can still happen. If one does, here’s what to do:

1. Stop working immediately (if possible)
2. Inform your employer 
3. See a doctor and get a medical certificate
4. Fill a claim with the CNESST
5. Begin any prescribed treatments (physiotherapy, occupational therapy, etc.)

Rehabilitation services are generally covered by the CNESST. Depending on the injury, you may be referred to:

• A physiotherapist or physical therapy technician
• An occupational therapist
• A psychologist or stress management professional
• An acupuncturist, in some cases
• An ergonomist, in some cases

To learn more about the steps to take, visit our Workplace Accident (CNESST) page.

A shared goal: your rehabilitation

For us, rehabilitation is truly a team effort. Our professionals support you with a human, personalized—and above all, collaborative—approach.

Your on-the-job experience is valuable. You are the expert in your reality, your tasks, your work environment. On our side, our expertise lies in our ability to understand your experience, actively integrate it into your care plan, and create a tailored approach.

It’s this combination—your real-world knowledge and our clinical expertise—that makes our approach so effective. Together, we build a sustainable return to work, adapted to your challenges, your strengths, and your goals.

Have you experienced a workplace accident or want to prevent injuries before they happen? Contact us today at 1 888 951-8667. 

Article written by Jean-Luc Simard, physiotherapy technologist.

Related article: “Regaining Confidence After a Workplace Accident.”