Manual Handling

Blended Learning Course
Online Theory Training
Tutored Practical Assessment

Video Conference Course
Live Remote Instructor
Tutored Practical Assessment

Manual Handling Safety Awareness

All MKD Safety course formats are fully compliant.
This manual handling course can be taken as an e-learning course with practical assessment to follow, or delivered by one of our tutors through a video conference TEAMS call, including a remote practical assessment for immediate certification.

Certification is for 3 years

QQI Level 6 Manual Handling Instructor

What is a Manual Handling Task?

The HSA defines a manual handling task as the movement of a load which poses a risk of injury – particularly to the back.
The risk can be due to unfavourable ergonomic conditions, the characteristics of the load or a combination of the two.

The characteristics of a load that make moving it a manual handling task include heavy, bulky and unstable loads.
Unfavourable ergonomic conditions include; loads positioned at low or high levels, when the use of stairs is involved in carrying out the task, moving loads over long distances, repetitive movements and working in awkward postures.

Course Modules Include:

  • What is Manual Handling?
  • Legislation – Legal Requirements
  • Anatomy & Back Care
  • Biomechanics
  • Ergonomics
  • Risk Assessment
  • Mechanical Equipment
  • Principles of Safe Moving
  • Skills Demonstration
  • Practical assessment 
  • Written test
  • Successful trainees receive a 3 year certificate. 

Manual Handling in the Workplace

Manual Handling is a physical activity that takes place in every workplace. In some cases the activity does not pose a problem. However it can be a potential workplace hazard when an employee is required to handle heavy, bulky, unstable or difficult loads. Performing manual handling tasks in unfavourable ergonomic conditions can result in a back injury. Unfavourable ergonomic conditions produce the largest percentage of back injuries and MSD’s

Avoid or Reduce Manual Handling Risks:

It is necessary to carry out a risk assessment of existing manual handling tasks before making an informed decision on which tasks need to be avoided or reduced. Employers must then take steps to avoid or reduce the risk of injury. The main concern with manual handling activity is the increased risk of injury due to wear and tear on the back. Back injuries are painful and reduce mobility, they can also lead to long absences from work.

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