Manual Handling Regulations 1992

The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992, often abbreviated MHOR, are UK regulations made under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 that require employers to avoid hazardous manual handling where reasonably practicable, assess remaining tasks and reduce the risk of injury. The regulations are directly relevant to drainage contractors who routinely lift cast iron manhole covers, drainage pipes, mortar bags and equipment across London worksites. They support the case for selecting lighter alternatives such as composite manhole covers under BS EN 124 where suitable, and using mechanical lifting aids for heavier components. Enforcement is by the Health and Safety Executive, with musculoskeletal injuries among the largest causes of working days lost in construction. Practical implications include carrying out task-based assessments, training operatives and using appropriate handling techniques. The formal reference is the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (SI 1992/2793) as amended.