Manual Handling

Provides learners with the skills, knowledge and training to utilise correct manual handling techniques when carrying out commonplace work activities.

About Course

Manual Handling Training course has been designed and developed by experienced Manual Handling Instructors to ensure learners are sufficiently trained and able to apply the principles and practices of safe manual handling in the workplace. The course addresses the current health and safety legislation in Ireland and outlines the legal responsibilities of the employee and employer at work. It provides useful tips on good back care and raises the awareness of the benefits of a healthy lifestyle in the reduction of manual handling injuries.

The course consists of 7 units. Units 1–6 cover Manual Handling Theory. Unit 7 is an interactive module that will focus on the practical demonstrations and assessment of practical Manual Handling techniques. Completion of Manual Handling training will allow learners to gain the ability to work in a confident and safe manner which will contribute to a safer work environment.

Who is this training course intended for?

Suitable for employees of all levels whose job involves the moving and handling of loads in the workplace.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the course learners will be able to:

  • Identify the relevant manual handling legislation in Ireland
  • Explain the anatomy of the spinal column
  • Recognise how incorrect manual handling technique can lead to injury
  • Outline the benefits of fitness and flexibility in the workplace
  • Describe the role of ergonomics and risk assessment in manual handling
  • State the 8 principles of safe manual handling

Course Content

Unit 1: Manual Handling Legislation
  • Reasons to Manage Manual Handling
  • Definition of Manual Handling
  • General Duties of the Employer
  • Duties of the Employee
  • Duties of the Employer in relation to Manual Handling
Unit 2: The Musculoskeletal System
  • Structure and functions of the spine
  • The vertebrae
  • Spinal discs
  • The spinal cord
  • Ligaments and tendons
  • Muscles in movement
  • Joints of the spine
  • The process of movement
Unit 3: Musculoskeletal Disorders
  • Neck and upper limb disorders
  • Lower limb disorders
  • Disorders of the back
  • Risk factors for manual handling
Unit 4: Fitness and Flexibility
  • Fitness and flexibility
  • Benefits of stretching
  • Good posture
  • Healthy Lifestyle
Unit 5: Ergonomics and Risk Assessment
  • What is Ergonomics?
  • Benefits of good workplace ergonomics
  • Manual handling risk assessment
Unit 6: Safe Handling Techniques
  • The 8 principles of manual handling
  • Lifting from the floor (theory)
  • Lifting to waist height (theory)
  • Lifting to a height (theory)
  • Pushing and pulling (theory)
  • Team lift (theory)
Unit 7: Practical Manual Handling

This Unit is carried out in the classroom and demonstrates how the principles of manual handling can be put into practice to include:

  • Carrying
  • Pushing and pulling
  • Lifting from low levels
  • Lowering from a height
  • Team lifting principles
  • Further information on minding your own back

Course Delivery Method

This course is delivered online, in the classroom or through blended learning; a combination of online and classroom-based. At the end of Unit 6, learners are required to complete a multiple choice exam. You will need to reach a mark of 80% or more.

Following completion of the exam learners are required to attend a classroom-based practical assessment session with a qualified and experienced instructor which includes a demonstration and assessment of practical manual handling techniques.

The practical assessment can be delivered in a classroom or through virtual classroom. All learners need to participate in the virtual classroom is a mobile, tablet, laptop or computer device with a camera to interact with the manual handling instructor. The certificate is valid for 3 years.

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