Medical professionals should not be required to manually lift patients because it can create serious back problems, according to the Department of Health (DoH).
The DoH has suggested that manual lifting is not necessary because specialised equipment such as hoists and sliding aids are available to help move patients, residents in nursing or care homes, or those in a community setting.
A spokesperson said: "Staff should no longer have to risk injury while doing their job."
Moreover, the British Chiropractic Association (CPA) has revealed that up to 5,000 nurses are being treated for back pain caused by moving heavy patients.
Dr Matthew Bennett of the CPA said: "We probably see one or two new nurses a week but there are dozens on each practice list.
"There are thousands of nurses with work-related back pain and I think this could increase in the future. The weight of patients is a contributory factor.
"It's not just a weight issue - it's a fitness issue with people unable to turn themselves over easily."
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