Manual Handling

Manual Handling is used to describe any tasks which involve pushing, pulling, carrying, lifting, lowering and holding any object, animal or person.

In 2004/5 there were approximately 56,500 manual handling related injuries. Every year around 1.1 million people are affected by musculoskeletal conditions which affect joints, ligaments, tendons, nerves, muscles and spinal discs.

What does a manual handling course consist of?

  • Current legislation relevant to manual handling and risk assessment

  • Anatomy and biomechanics of the spine.

  • Areas of the body at risk from work related musculoskeletal disorders.

  • Mechanisms of injury.

  • Risk factors.

  • Recommendations for reducing risk, on an identified area.

  • Practicalities and considerations.

  • Lifting technique and practice.

  • Benefits of exercise.

  • Back care and preventative exercises.

  • Discussion and problem solving.

How will manual handling help my business?

  • Reduced absenteeism – Over 32% of injuries resulting in more than 3 days away from work are due to Manual Handling injuries. Correct techniques and increased awareness can help reduce this figure.

  • Legal compliance.

  • Increased efficiency and productivity.

  • Improved Moral.

We also offer refresher courses and Training for Risk Assessors and Trainers.

DSE Training

We also provide DSE training to small groups or to individuals. Content includes the following:

  • Current legislation and guidelines.

  • Basic ergonomic principles.

  • Risk factors associated with injury and poor posture.

  • Good working postures.

  • Outline of work related musculoskeletal disorders, symptoms and warning signs.

  • How to minimise harmful postures.

  • How to carry out a risk assessment of the work station.

Companies wishing to train individuals in how to carry out their Display Screen Risk assessments may contact us for further information.

Back Care Classes

Attending a back Care course will provide the individual with:

  • An understanding of the structure and biomechanics of the spine.

  • A basic understanding of ergonomics.

  • An understanding of risk factors associated with injury.

  • A knowledge of dangerous postures.

  • A knowledge of correct posture and movement when sitting, standing and handling.