Christmas is nearly here and it can be a demanding time for those working throughout the festive season.
The run-up to Christmas can be especially busy for those who work in haulage and distribution.
Workers in this industry risk MSD injuries from hazardous manual handling. This can include:
- workers lifting heavy items, or pushing and pulling loaded handling aids such as pallet trucks or roll cages around warehouses
- delivery drivers manually handling heavy parcels across the country
Our step-by-step guide to manual handling at work should help you minimise these risks.
We also have advice for users and suppliers of agency, or temporary workers, as many employers specifically hire these workers for the festive period.
Time is running out to make a nomination for HSE’s 2026 Risk-reduction through design awards.
If you are an employer in the UK and you have made design changes that have reduced musculoskeletal risks in your workplace, then nominate yourselves for the awards.
MSDs affect backs, joints, and limbs, and remain one of the leading causes of work-related ill health, costing Great Britain over 6.6 million lost working days every year.
This year, we’re focusing on organisations that have:
- reduced lifting, pushing, or pulling
- improved posture during tasks
- eliminated manual handling through design changes
If your workplace has introduced improvements like these, this is your chance to be recognised.
Award categories:
- best overall MSD risk reduction
- SME recognition award (for businesses with fewer than 250 employees)
How to enter
Further details on how to enter, as well as inspiring case studies of previous winners, can be found on our website.
Entries close on 31 January 2026.
HSE's specialist training courses can help you assess risks and implement effective controls in your workplace.
HSE's specialist training courses can help you assess risks and implement effective controls in your workplace.
The following courses are held at HSE's Science and Research Centre, Buxton:
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