For every business, the safety and well-being of employees is of the utmost importance. After all they are core to a business, no matter the sector or service offering. The people within a business are integral to its success and an important part of health and safety within businesses across the UK is manual handling.
At Acorn Occupational Health, we provide a range of occupational health services to businesses up and down the country. Such as management referrals, and health surveillance programmes. However, we also offer a range of training services. Each is designed to equip employees with the skills and knowledge to ensure their safety in the workplace. One of our most popular training services is our manual handling training.
What is manual handling?
Manual handling refers to the transportation of loads by hand or by using bodily force. A commonplace task which is present in many sectors including manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and logistics. Despite the common nature of manual handling, it often comes with exposure to risks.
The Importance of Manual Handling Training
Manual Handling Training is a legal requirement. In fact the HSE states that as an employer, you must protect your workers from risk of injury from hazardous manual handling within the workplace. Whilst manual handling training does not completely remove the risk altogether, it’s vital in raising awareness and reducing the potential risks.
What does manual handling training include
The HSE states that manual handling training should include the below:
- The risks associated with manual handling
- How manual handling injuries can occur
- How to use manual handling equipment
- How to remain safe whilst lifting or moving heavy or large loads
- Good handling techniques
- Manual handling pointers that relate to an individual’s role
- Practicing manual handling (task simulation)
Benefits of manual handling training:
At Acorn, we understand that it’s important for businesses to mitigate risks linked with manual handling. But, what are the benefits to a thorough manual handling training programme?
Reduction of workplace injuries
Work-related injuries as a result of manual handling can be severe, and can lead to long-term health issues. These can include musculoskeletal disorders, strains, sprains, and even fractures. But by providing an extensive training programme that educates employees on proper lifting techniques, posture, and the use of equipment when handling loads. Lowering the incidence of workplace injuries and contributes to a safer work environment.
Enhanced efficiency
Efficiency and productivity are vital in today’s competitive business environment. Manual handling training not only reduces the risk of injury but also enhances employees’ ability to handle loads efficiently. When employees are trained to lift and move objects correctly, they can work more effectively, reducing the likelihood of errors, delays, and disruptions in operations.
Legal Compliance
To get the most out of the training and to ensure you are complying legally this training is best carried out with an ergonomist. The HSE states that employers should protect employees by law, and others from harm. Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, the minimum an employer must do is:
- identify what could cause injury or illness in your business (hazards)
- decide how likely it is that someone could be harmed and how seriously (the risk)
- take action to eliminate the hazard, or if this isn’t possible, control the risk
Failing to provide proper manual handling training can result in costly legal repercussions. Acorn Occupational Health’s training programs are designed to meet legal requirements and standards, ensuring that businesses remain compliant with health and safety regulations.
Improved Employee Morale
Investing in the health, safety and well-being of employees creates a positive work environment. Employees who feel valued and safe in their workplace are more likely to be engaged, motivated, and committed to their jobs. Acorn Occupational Health’s manual handling training can contribute to a happier and more satisfied workforce.
Our Manual Handling Training Programme
We offer an extensive manual handling training programme. Led by one of our fully qualified ergonomic specialists, your training will be tailored specific to your business’ sector. The training programme is designed to equip employees with the skills and knowledge necessary to handle loads safely and efficiently. Key aspects of the service includes:
Tailored training
We have visited a wide range of work environments meaning we have an understanding of the different issues that can occur in these spaces. We understand that different sectors have unique manual handling requirements. Therefore, we offer customised training programs that are tailored to the specific needs and challenges of each industry. Whether you work in healthcare, manufacturing, or construction, Acorn Occupational Health can provide training that is relevant and effective. As specialists in manual handling we may notice hazards that aren’t immediately obvious.
Experienced Manual Handling Experts
Any kind of training success is based on the expertise of instructors, and their teaching style. Our trainers are highly experienced and knowledgeable in the field of manual handling. They not only deliver the material effectively but also provide valuable insights and answer questions to ensure that participants fully understand the concepts.
Wearable Sensor Technology
The training we offer is more in depth than a standard training course. We have the latest wearable sensor technology that allows us to collect data that gives insight into employees’ musculoskeletal health. Having access to this technology means the training we offer is tailored specifically to your employees.
Practical Sessions
Whilst every employee will learn in different ways, the most effective way to acquire new physical skills is by completing practical exercises. Our training includes practical sessions that allow participants to practice safe lifting techniques and gain hands-on experience in a controlled environment. This hands-on approach helps participants internalise the lessons and apply them in real-world scenarios.
Extensive Course content
Our manual handling training covers a wide range of topics. Including risk assessment, biomechanics, and the use of mechanical aids. You employees will learn how to lift and carry loads safely as well as how to identify potential hazards and take preventive measures.
Contact Us
Health and safety of employees should always be a priority for employers in the UK. But preventative training can significantly reduce the risk of potential injury relating to lifting or moving heavy loads using the body.
Want to know more about our training services? Please get in touch with our team, call us on 01260 277797 or email us at website@acornoh.co.uk