MANAGEMENT OF MANUAL HANDLING RISK IN WELSH CARE HOMES

摘要

This study benchmarked the management of manual handling risk in Welsh care homes. Questionnaires were completed by 241 managers and 860 workers on perceptions of management systems, prevalence of musculoskeletal trouble and psychosocial factors. High proportions of staff were routinely involved in manual handling. Both managers and workers had very positive perceptions of how manual handling risk was controlled. Mechanical handling aids were in general and frequent use. Prevalence rates of musculoskeletal trouble were low. Worker perceptions of psychosocial factors were significantly more positive than other UK surveys. Both management and staff believed that manual handling risks could be further reduced. Therefore, care homes should be encouraged to maintain and improve on the present high standards.