Manual Handling / Moving & Handling Policy

1. Purpose 

Falcon Greencare is committed to ensuring the safe moving and handling of people and objects to protect service users, staff, and others from injury. This policy outlines safe practices in line with Care Quality Commission (CQC) standards and legal requirements.

2. Scope 

This policy applies to: 

• All employees, agency workers, and contractors  
• Staff working in care homes, supported living, and other healthcare environments  

3. Legal and Regulatory Framework 

Falcon Greencare operates in accordance with: 

• The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992  
• The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974  
• The Care Quality Commission Fundamental Standards (Regulation 12 – Safe Care and Treatment)  

4. Policy Statement 

Falcon Greencare will: 

• Minimise the need for manual handling wherever possible  
• Ensure safe systems of work are followed  
• Provide training and guidance to staff 
• Promote the use of appropriate equipment  
• Prevent injury to staff and service users  

5. Definition of Manual Handling 

Manual handling includes: 

• Lifting  
• Lowering  
• Pushing  
• Pulling  
• Carrying  
• Supporting or moving a person  

6. Principles of Safe Moving & Handling 

Staff must: 

• Avoid manual handling where possible 
• Use mechanical aids (e.g. hoists) when required  
• Follow care plans and risk assessments 
• Never move a service user without proper training  
• Seek assistance when needed  

7. Risk Assessment 

7.1  General Risk Assessment 

All manual handling tasks must be assessed using: 

• Task  
• Individual  
• Load  
• Environment (TILE)  

7.2  Individual Care Plans 

• Staff must follow the service user’s moving and handling care plan  
• Any changes in condition must be reported immediately  

8. Use of Equipment 

Staff must: 

• Use equipment provided (e.g. hoists, slide sheets, transfer aids)  
• Check equipment is safe before use 
• Report faulty equipment immediately 
• Never use equipment they are not trained to operate  

9. Training Requirements 

Falcon Greencare ensures: 

• All staff complete moving and handling training before placement  
• Regular refresher training is undertaken  
• Competency is assessed and maintained 

10. Responsibilities 

10.1 Management 

Management is responsible for: 

• Ensuring staff are trained and competent  
• Monitoring compliance  
• Investigating incidents  

10.2 Staff 

All staff must: 

• Follow safe handling procedures  
• Use equipment correctly  
• Report risks, incidents, or injuries 
• Work within their level of competence 

11. Incident Reporting 

• Any injury, near miss, or unsafe practice must be reported immediately  
• Incidents must be recorded in line with the Incident Reporting Policy  

12. Unsafe Practices 

The following are strictly prohibited: 

• Lifting individuals without proper equipment where required  
• Ignoring care plans or risk assessments 
• Using incorrect techniques  
• Working beyond personal capability 

13. Health and Safety 

Falcon Greencare promotes: 

• Safe working environments  
• Prevention of musculoskeletal injuries 
• Staff wellbeing and support  

14. Non-Compliance 

Failure to comply may result in: 

• Removal from placement  
• Disciplinary action  
• Termination of employment or contract 

15. Monitoring and Review 

• Compliance is monitored through feedback and supervision  
• This policy is reviewed annually or in line with updated guidance  

16. Commitment to Safe Care 

Falcon Greencare is committed to: 

• Protecting staff and service users from harm  
• Promoting safe and effective moving and handling practices  
• Delivering high-quality, person-centred care 
  
  
  

Date written: 27/2/2026
To be reviewed: 27/02/2027