In today’s competitive logistics and warehousing landscape, companies are increasingly recognising that one of their most valuable assets is not their inventory or machinery but their workforce. More specifically, the experience and reliability that come with older employees can be vital to operational success. However, retaining these experienced professionals in physically demanding roles such as warehousing requires thoughtful strategy, and the right manual handling equipment can be a game-changer in retaining experienced warehouse workers.
The Value of Experience in the Warehouse
As highlighted by People Plus, older employees bring “a deep well of industry knowledge and experience that younger workers are still developing.” They often have a strong work ethic and a well-developed understanding of processes, contributing to improved productivity and efficiency. Retaining these employees makes good business sense, but it becomes increasingly important to accommodate the physical challenges that may come with age.
Warehousing, with its reliance on manual handling, can present significant risks especially for an ageing workforce. Without proper support, tasks that were once routine may become arduous or even dangerous, leading to injury, absenteeism, or early retirement.
The Impact of Manual Handling Injuries
Each year in the UK, 300,000 people suffer from back pain due to manual handling accidents, according to Unison. Injuries to the back, neck, or spine can result in severe pain, temporary incapacity, or even long-term disability. In environments such as warehouses where lifting, carrying, and repetitive motion are a constant part of the job, these risks are particularly common.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) underscores this point, stating in their guide Manual Handling at Work that employers must protect workers from the risk of injury and ill health caused by hazardous manual handling tasks. Beyond the legal responsibility, this is a clear imperative for businesses that want to support and retain their workforce.
Lifting and Handling Technology That Supports Retention and Health
Fortunately, modern lifting and handling solutions can significantly reduce physical strain. Equipment from innovative brands such as Lifts All offers advanced tools including:
These tools aim to minimise physical exertion and lower risk. These technologies allow more employees, regardless of age or strength, to safely perform tasks that were once highly physical.
Such solutions do more than protect health, they enable inclusive, sustainable productivity. When warehouses are equipped with systems that reduce the need for brute strength, a broader and more diverse workforce can thrive. This means experienced employees can remain in roles longer, sharing their knowledge and contributing to a safer, more effective workplace.
"Modern lifting and handling solutions can significantly reduce physical strain."
Reducing Absence with Preventative Measures
The Centre for Ageing Better points out that sickness is the leading cause of economic inactivity among workers aged 50 to 64. By implementing ergonomic and assistive lifting equipment, businesses can help prevent these absences before they occur, retaining not just people but productivity.
Conclusion: Investing in Equipment Is Investing in People
Supporting an ageing workforce isn’t just about compassion, it’s about smart business. By reducing physical demands and improving safety through advanced manual handling equipment, employers can protect their most experienced team members, boost productivity, and reduce absences caused by injury.
Retaining a healthy, experienced workforce doesn’t always require radical change. Sometimes, it starts with lifting and handling smarter.
References
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(n.d.). Manual handling injuries and back pain. Retrieved from https://www.unison.org.uk
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Centre for Ageing Better. (2024). The state of ageing 2023–24: Work. Retrieved from https://ageing-better.org.uk/work-state-ageing-2023-4
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People Plus. (n.d.). The value of experience: Why retaining your older workforce is crucial. Retrieved from https://www.peopleplus.co.uk/blog/the-value-of-experience-why-retaining-your-older-workforce-is-crucial
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Health and Safety Executive (HSE). (2012). Manual handling at work: A brief guide (INDG143). Retrieved from https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg143.pdf