Manual Handling and Safe Lifting Techniques Online Course

The Manual Handling and Safe Lifting Techniques course is a comprehensive training program designed to empower learners with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to perform manual handling tasks safely, effectively, and respectfully—especially in settings involving individuals with learning disabilities.

Working with people who have learning disabilities often requires physical assistance—moving, lifting, or supporting them in day-to-day activities such as transferring from beds, chairs, or wheelchairs. Without proper training, these tasks can lead to serious injuries, both for the caregiver and the individual being supported. This course addresses these risks and prepares learners to handle physical support tasks safely, while promoting the dignity, comfort, and independence of those they assist.

The course covers essential regulations, common hazards, ergonomic techniques, and risk assessment tools to ensure manual handling is carried out in a controlled, lawful, and compassionate manner. This is particularly important in health and social care environments, where supporting vulnerable individuals must be done with the highest standards of care and professionalism.

Learners will explore real-world scenarios, be introduced to best-practice techniques, and gain insights into adaptive equipment that reduces strain and improves safety. Whether you’re new to care or experienced in the field, this course will enhance your skills and ensure compliance with manual handling regulations.

Learning Outcomes

• Identify manual handling hazards in learning disability care environments.
• Demonstrate correct lifting and moving techniques using safe practices.
• Understand the legal responsibilities related to manual handling safety.
• Conduct effective manual handling risk assessments for diverse situations.
• Apply control measures to reduce injury and improve movement support.
• Promote dignity and independence through safe person-handling methods.

Course Link: Manual Handling and Safe Lifting Techniques

Course Curriculum

Module 01: Introduction, Legislation and Guidance

• Importance of manual handling in disability support
• Health and Safety at Work regulations
• Manual Handling Operations Regulations (MHOR)
• International standards and global legislation
• Professional responsibilities and duty of care

Module 02: Manual Handling Hazards and Injuries

• Common injuries from poor lifting techniques
• Musculoskeletal disorders and long-term damage
• Risks for people with learning disabilities
• Environment-specific hazards (e.g., wet floors, confined spaces)
• Identifying early warning signs of unsafe practices

Module 03: Manual Handling Risk Assessments

• Step-by-step guide to effective risk assessment
• Analyzing task, individual, load, and environment (TILE)
• Risk control hierarchy in handling support
• Documenting and reviewing manual handling plans
• Collaborative approaches to safe lifting decisions

Module 04: Controlling and Reducing the Risks

• Use of mechanical aids (hoists, slide sheets, wheelchairs)
• Reducing repetitive strain with adaptive equipment
• Techniques to minimize friction and awkward posture
• Environmental adjustments to optimize safe movement
• Implementing staff training and competency assessments

Module 05: Safe Lifting Techniques

• Preparation before lifting (positioning, communication, support)
• Proper body mechanics and posture alignment
• Two-person lift techniques and coordination
• Safe transfer from bed to wheelchair or vice versa
• Emergency handling – falls, sudden collapse, resistance

Disclaimer:

This is an online course with pre-recorded lessons. You will get access to the course within 48 hours after your enrolment.