Ergonomic Patient Handling Card® - promoting good working practices in the healthcare sector

This case study describes the Ergonomic Patient Handling Card® (the Card®), a training programme developed in 2010 by the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health (FIOH) in collaboration with Finland’s Ministry of Social Affairs and Health and the Sotergo network. Aimed at reducing musculoskeletal risks in the health and social care (HeSCare) sector, the Card® equips healthcare professionals and students with essential ergonomic knowledge and practical skills for safe patient handling.

Since its launch, the programme – also available in English - has trained over 10,000 individuals and has established a nationwide network of nearly 600 certified instructors. This case study explores the development, implementation and impact of the Card® within the Finnish HeSCare sector and considers its potential for wider application across the EU.