According to recent statistics, manual handling is responsible for over a third of all workplace injuries. These injuries can range from minor sprains and strains to more serious back injuries. In some cases, manual handling injuries can even be fatal. 

There are several factors that can contribute to manual handling injuries

• The weight of the object being moved. 
• The distance the object is being moved. 
• The awkward position of the object. 
• The employee’s physical condition / health. 
• The employee’s knowledge of safe manual handling techniques. 

Manual handling training can help to reduce the risk of injuries by teaching employees how to move objects safely. The training should cover the following topics: 

• The principles of safe manual handling. 
• How to assess the risks involved in manual handling tasks. 
• How to use mechanical aids to reduce the risk of injury. 
• How to develop good manual handling techniques. 

Manual handling training should be tailored to the specific needs of the workplace. The training should be delivered by a qualified trainer, and it should be practical and interactive in nature. Employees should have the opportunity to practice what they have learned. 

By providing manual handling training to personnel, employers can help to protect their employees from injury. The training can also help to improve productivity, staff retention and reduce the cost of workplace accidents. 

Benefits of Manual Handling Training 

• Reduced risk of injury. Manual handling training can help to reduce the risk of injuries by teaching employees how to move objects safely. 
• Improved productivity. Employees who are trained in safe manual handling techniques are less likely to be injured, which can lead to increased productivity. 

• Reduced costs. Workplace accidents can be costly for employers. Manual handling training can help to reduce the cost of accidents by reducing the number of injuries. 
• Improved morale. Employees who feel that their employer is committed to their safety are more likely to be satisfied with their work. 

How to Deliver Manual Handling Training 

• In-house training. Employers can provide in-house training by hiring a qualified trainer to deliver the training. 
• External training. Employers can send employees to an external training course. 

• Online training. There are several online courses available that can be used to provide manual handling training. 

The iProtectU health and safety software provides: 

• An inspection and Audit App which allows for safety inspection of the workplace and associated report 
• eLearning on Manual Handling 

• Scheduling functionality for managers to send eLearning, risk assessments and documents out to all staff via the software with tracks completion and compliance 
• Risk assessment template covering manual handling activities 
• Management system to document control the policy on manual handling 
• Method Statement module for the creation of work activity working instructions 
• Legal register that provides legislation guidance on manual handling 

• Incident investigation module that tracks incidents involving heavy lifting both with an app and via desktop 
• Hazard observation app where staff can report and record any concerns regarding moving or lifting items or equipment to the organisation 
• Asset management App ensuring assets are recorded in the software