Course Overview

Learn the importance of good lifting and moving techniques, and how to avoid injury with our CPD certificated information-packed training. This is a highly interactive course which allows delegates to gain ‘hands-on’ experience of safe manual handling under the supervision of our instructor. You will learn different strategies and techniques to minimise risk such as using specialist equipment. All delegates participate in a practical lifting session with one of our highly experienced trainers. This element of the course is crucial in developing good practice.

This course can be delivered as part of a bundle with our Working at Height (Ladders and Stepladders) training course and/or our CoSHH training course.

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What Our Customers Say

“Excellent training from a very knowledgeable trainer. The content was well tailored and the training was suitable for both beginners and those needing a refresh.”

ND, Inspiro

“The course was very well designed, easy to understand and expertly presented by the trainer. Our trainer, Helen, was articulate and very well informed!”

ML, Cognitive Media

“Very clear delivery and excellent open discussions that kept us all engaged.”

JJ, Ringway Jacobs

Course Content

In line with Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992, on completion of this course, you will understand how to use good posture and correct lifting techniques. This will enable you to reduce the risk of injury to yourself and to others in the workplace.

This section covers the key legislation relating to manual handling in the workplace, including the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992. You will learn about the legal duties placed on employers and employees to prevent injuries related to manual handling tasks. The module will explore how these laws require employers to assess risks, provide training, and implement control measures to ensure a safe working environment. By the end of this section, you will have a clear understanding of the relevant legal frameworks and how they apply to manual handling, ensuring compliance and reducing the risk of workplace injuries.

This section focuses on the process of assessing hazards and risks associated with manual handling tasks in the workplace. You will learn how to identify potential risks, such as lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling, and how these activities can lead to injuries if not managed correctly. The module will guide you through the steps of risk assessment, including evaluating the task, the load, the environment, and the individual involved. You will also explore methods for implementing control measures to reduce or eliminate risks. By the end of this section, you will be equipped with the skills to conduct effective manual handling risk assessments, ensuring safer working practices and compliance with relevant health and safety regulations.

This section focuses on the process of making a dynamic risk assessment for manual handling tasks. You will learn how to assess risks in real-time by considering changing circumstances, such as the environment, the load, and the physical condition of the individual performing the task. The module will guide you through the principles of identifying hazards as they arise and adapting your approach to control risks effectively. You will also explore the importance of flexibility in responding to unexpected challenges and how to make informed decisions to minimise risk while ensuring safety. By the end of this section, you will have the skills to carry out a dynamic risk assessment, helping you maintain a safe working environment during manual handling operations.

This section covers the common accident rates and the types of injuries associated with manual handling tasks. You will learn about the most frequent causes of injuries, such as improper lifting techniques, poor posture, and failure to assess the load correctly. The course will also highlight the different types of injuries, including musculoskeletal disorders, strains, and sprains, and their long-term effects. By understanding the risks and recognising the signs of potential injuries, you will gain the knowledge to prevent accidents and improve your safety during manual handling tasks.

This section outlines the responsibilities of both employers and employees in ensuring safe manual handling practices in the workplace. You will learn about the employer’s legal duty to assess risks, provide training, and implement safe systems of work, as well as their obligation to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of employees during manual handling tasks. The module also covers the employee’s role in following safe practices, reporting potential hazards, and using appropriate lifting techniques. By the end of this section, you will understand the shared responsibilities of employers and employees in reducing the risk of manual handling injuries and promoting a culture of safety in the workplace.

This section covers the basic principles of manual handling that should be applied in everyday working environments. You will learn the essential techniques for safely lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling loads, with a focus on proper posture, body alignment, and the use of equipment to reduce strain. The module explores how to assess the load, the environment, and your own physical condition before performing manual handling tasks. By the end of this section, you will have a solid understanding of how to incorporate these principles into daily tasks to minimise the risk of injury and promote a safer, more efficient working environment.

This section covers the safe techniques for pushing and pulling loads, essential for preventing injury and ensuring effective manual handling. You will learn the proper body posture, positioning, and movement strategies needed to push or pull objects with minimal strain. Emphasis will be placed on assessing the load’s weight and stability, as well as knowing when to use mechanical aids or seek assistance. Through practical guidance and demonstrations, you will gain the skills to manage pushing and pulling tasks safely and efficiently in the workplace.

In this section, you will learn how to effectively use mechanical aids to assist with manual handling tasks and reduce the risk of injury. The course will cover a variety of aids, such as trolleys, hoists, pallet trucks, and other lifting devices, explaining when and how to use them safely. You will also learn how to assess the right equipment for different tasks, ensuring it is in good condition and suitable for the load. By the end of this section, you will have the knowledge to use mechanical aids confidently, improving safety and efficiency in your manual handling practices.

In this section, you will learn the principles and techniques for safely lifting and moving heavy or bulky loads with the help of others. The course will cover effective communication, coordination, and planning when performing team lifts to ensure all participants are aligned in their movements. You will also learn how to assess the load, determine the appropriate lifting techniques, and recognise when a team lift is necessary. By the end of this section, you will have the skills to work effectively as part of a team to lift and move loads safely, reducing the risk of injury to yourself and others.

In this section, you will apply the principles and techniques you’ve learned throughout the course in a hands-on environment. The practical session allows you to practice safe manual handling techniques, including lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling, under the supervision of an experienced trainer. You will have the opportunity to work with different types of loads and equipment, ensuring you are confident in using the correct posture, body mechanics, and safety measures. This interactive session will help reinforce your understanding and build the skills necessary to carry out manual handling tasks safely and effectively in real-world scenarios.

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Who Is This Course For?

This course is for any employee whose work requires them to undertake manual handling tasks. For instance, anyone who undertakes the lifting, putting down, pushing, pulling, carrying or moving any load by hand or by bodily force. This course is not suitable for pregnant women or those suffering from an injury or condition which is likely to cause discomfort.

We recommend this course for the following industries:

Legionella Awareness Course

Why Choose In-Person Training From Worksafe?

When it comes to health and safety, high-quality training can make all the difference. At Worksafe, we believe that in-person, instructor-led courses provide the most effective learning experience, ensuring participants gain the knowledge, confidence, and hands-on skills needed to apply safety principles in real-world situations. Unlike passive online slideshow courses, our face-to-face training sessions offer interactive learning, real-time feedback, and practical demonstrations led by industry experts.

Should I Book a Public or a Private Course?

Our live, instructor-led public courses, delivered via Teams, provide an interactive and engaging learning experience. Ideal for training one or two delegates, these sessions offer a cost-effective solution while enabling participants to network, collaborate, and share insights with professionals from other organisations.

For larger groups, our private courses offer maximum flexibility. Delivered on a date of your choice, these sessions can be customised to align with your specific requirements. Training can take place onsite at your workplace or, where suitable, virtually via Teams, ensuring a seamless and effective learning experience.

Open and Private Courses

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Frequently Asked Questions

This is a half-day course, usually running for 150 minutes.

We can usually arrange timings to suit your requirements.

Delegates are assessed on their understanding and on their safe lifting technique throughout the training session.

There is no written exam.

Yes. Upon finishing the training, you will receive a certificate of completion to demonstrate that you have engaged in professional learning. As the course is CPD Accredited, this certificate confirms that the learner has successfully completed a course that meets Continuing Professional Development (CPD) standards. This is suitable for both career development and industry compliance.

Our open courses are available online via Microsoft Teams.

Our in-house courses can be delivered online through Microsoft Teams, or in person at your business premises or an alternative agreed location.

A public course is a scheduled training session that is open to individuals from different organisations. Our public sessions take place online over Microsoft Teams, and you are welcome to book a spot for as many employees as you like. Our public courses are ideal for smaller businesses or individuals who need certification without arranging a dedicated session.

A private course is a training session delivered exclusively for your company’s employees. This will typically take place at your premises, but can also be delivered online over Microsoft Teams if preferred. Private courses are a cost-effective option for larger groups and can be tailored to your company’s needs, ensuring relevance to your specific risks and work environment.

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Arrange a Private Course

A private course, delivered on a date of your choice, is an excellent choice where you have a number of people to train. We can even customise the content for you.

Delivered onsite at your place of work or, where possible, via Teams.