Manual Handling Awareness

This Manual Handling awareness course gives learners practical know-how to lift, carry, push, pull and move loads safely in UK construction. It explains how injuries happen and shows simple techniques and good judgment that reduce strain and prevent long-term damage.

• Focuses on back, shoulder and arm injury risks
• Explains key principles: keep loads close, use legs not back, avoid twisting
• Emphasises planning the move, route and resting points before starting
• Shows that safe handling is about technique, not strength
• Helps learners recognise risky tasks: heavy/awkward loads, repetition, blocked routes, stairs, poor visibility
• Covers long objects, sharp edges and uneven or cluttered surfaces
• Explains when to stop, seek help or refuse unsafe lifts
• Introduces mechanical aids such as sack trucks and trolleys
• Promotes team lifting and breaks to prevent fatigue-related injuries
• Uses knowledge checks to confirm safe methods, hazard spotting and what to do if something feels unsafe or painful