Manual Handling

What Does the Course Cover?

The training typically covers the following topics:

• Health and safety legislation: Understanding the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 and the responsibilities of employers and employees.
• Manual handling hazards: Identifying common risks associated with lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling and moving objects.
• Risk assessment: Understanding how to assess the task, individual capability, load and working environment to identify potential risks.
• Safe lifting techniques: Learning principles for handling loads safely, including maintaining a stable posture, keeping loads close to the body and avoiding unnecessary twisting.
• Handling different loads: Understanding how to manage heavy, awkward, bulky or unstable items safely.
• Mechanical aids and equipment: Recognising when trolleys, lifting aids or other equipment should be used to reduce manual handling risks.
• Preventing injuries: Understanding how poor posture, repetitive movements, excessive loads and unsuitable working conditions can contribute to injury.
• Team lifting: Recognising when assistance may be needed and the importance of clear communication and coordination.
• Workplace responsibilities: Understanding the importance of following safe systems of work, reporting hazards and using the control measures provided.

Who Should Attend?

Manual Handling Training is suitable for construction workers, warehouse operatives, delivery personnel, manufacturing staff, maintenance teams, care workers and anyone whose job involves moving or handling loads.

It is also appropriate for employers and supervisors who want to improve workplace safety awareness and reduce the risk of manual handling injuries among their teams.

Course Duration

The duration depends on the training provider, course content and delivery method. Please contact 1st2 Achieve for details of available course dates and delivery options.

Benefits of the Training

On completion, learners should have a better understanding of manual handling risks and the precautions required to reduce the likelihood of workplace injuries. The training can help improve safety awareness, encourage better handling practices and support compliance with relevant health and safety requirements.

Important Information

Employers should avoid hazardous manual handling where reasonably practicable. Where it cannot be avoided, they must assess the risks and take appropriate steps to reduce them.

Training in lifting techniques alone is not sufficient to control every manual handling risk. Safe working practices should also consider the load, task, individual capability and working environment, together with the use of suitable mechanical aids where appropriate.