Last Updated on March 3, 2025 by tanya

Heavy Lifting Injuries In The Food and Drink Industry

 

Sprains And Strains To Back Pain, You Can Claim

 

Heavy lifting injuries in the food and drink industry are a hazard due to the number of goods required. Whether it’s a sack of potatoes, stacking crates in a brewery, or lugging bags of flour in a bakery, heavy lifting is typical in the industry.

The injuries from heavy lifting can range from simple strains to chronic back injury. Employers have a duty to keep you safe in the workplace. So if you’ve suffered a heavy lifting injury while at work, you may have a valid personal injury claim if your employer was negligent.

 

First Personal Injury works with lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and we may be able to help you.

 

Common Heavy Lifting Injuries

Harm caused by heavy lifting can result in injuries to various parts of the body from head to toes. Here are some of the most common:

Back Injuries

If you’ve ever worked in the food and drink industry, chances are that you’ve felt that twinge in your lower back after lifting something the wrong way. Repeated heavy lifting, or even one bad lift, can leave workers struggling to stand, sit, or even sleep comfortably.

 

• Muscle strains and sprains
• Herniated (slipped) discs
• Chronic lower back pain

Shoulder Injuries

Stacking heavy items or carrying loads for extended periods can have an impact on your shoulders. Frequent shoulder-related injuries include:

 

• Rotator cuff injuries
• Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
• Shoulder impingement

Hernias

 

A hernia occurs when an internal part of the body pushes through a weak spot in a muscle or tissue. Lifting heavy objects incorrectly can be a major culprit with this particular injury. The most common type of hernia from heavy lifting is an inguinal hernia, which affects the groin area and can be extremely painful.

Knee and Leg Injuries

 

Employees in the food and drink industry often have to squat, bend, and move quickly while carrying heavy loads. This can lead to injuries such as:

 

• Torn ligaments (ACL, MCL injuries)
• Meniscus tears
• Stress fractures

Knee injuries may be an issue because they often take a long time to heal and can impact mobility.

Hand and Wrist Injuries

 

Crucial to being able to  work, your hands and wrist may be affected from lifting crates to gripping heavy equipment. Repetitive strain, poor lifting techniques, and any sudden impact can lead to:

 

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Tendonitis
• Sprained or fractured wrists

 

When Can You Make a Personal Injury Claim?

 

In order to make a claim, you will need to show that your employer failed to take reasonable steps to protect you. Additionally, you will be required to link your injury directly to any negligence by your employer. This includes factors such as training in proper lifting techniques and any required lifting aids.

However, an unsafe working environment may also lead to accidents. Slippery floors, badly maintained storage areas or cluttered walkways or work spaces. Your employer should also have carried out the correct risk assessments.

 

How to Make a Claim

 

If you have been injured due to heavy lifting, it is essential you report it to your employer straightaway. Also ensure it is recorded in a workplace accident book. Keep records of medical appointments, treatments and costs. In the workplace, note any missing safety equipment or take photos of unsafe working conditions.

 

If you have been injured at work through no fault of your own, you don’t have to ‘just put up with it’. First Personal Injury can guide you through the process of how to make a personal injury claim. We work with expert lawyers who operate on a No Win, No Fee basis, ensuring you get the support you need without financial risk. Call us at 0333 3582345 or contact us online.