Is manual handling training legally required?
Legal and Practical Requirements for Manual Handling Training in the UK Workplace
Manual handling is a common activity in many workplaces, but it can pose significant risks if not done correctly. To ensure the safety and well-being of employees, the UK has established legal and practical requirements for manual handling training. Here's a comprehensive guide to understanding these requirements.
Legal Requirements
The primary legislation governing manual handling in the UK is the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (MHOR), which is an extension of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HSWA). These regulations aim to reduce the risk of injury due to manual handling tasks by ensuring proper training and safe working practices are in place. Key legal requirements include:
Avoidance of Manual Handling: Employers must avoid hazardous manual handling operations where reasonably practicable.
Risk Assessment: Where manual handling cannot be avoided, employers must conduct a risk assessment to identify potential hazards and implement measures to reduce the risk of injury.
Implementation of Control Measures: Employers must take steps to reduce the risk of injury as far as reasonably practicable. This includes providing appropriate manual handling training to employees.
Training: Employers are legally required to provide suitable and sufficient training to employees who engage in manual handling activities. This training should cover the risks associated with manual handling, correct lifting and handling techniques, and the use of mechanical aids or equipment.
Practical Requirements
In addition to legal requirements, there are practical considerations for effective manual handling training especially when it was reported that around 6.6 million working days were lost in 2022/23 with manual handling related issues being cited as one of the primary factors . These include:
Understanding Risks: Training should help employees understand the risks associated with manual handling and recognize hazardous tasks and situations.
Correct Techniques: Employees should be trained in correct lifting and handling techniques, such as bending the knees, keeping the back straight, and holding the load close to the body.
Use of Mechanical Aids: Training should cover the use of mechanical aids or equipment to reduce the need for manual handling and minimize the risk of injury.
Tailored Training: The content of manual handling training should be relevant to the specific tasks and environment of the workplace. This may require professional help to ensure the training is tailored to the needs of the employees.
Ongoing Training and Refresher Courses: To maintain competency, employers should provide ongoing training and refresher courses to ensure employees continue to apply safe manual handling techniques.
Conclusion
Manual handling training is a critical component of workplace safety in the UK. By adhering to legal requirements and implementing practical training measures, employers can significantly reduce the risk of injury and ensure a safer working environment for their employees. Regular risk assessments, tailored training, and ongoing support are essential to maintaining high standards of manual handling safety.
For more detailed information, you can claim your free guide from the HSE here Manual handling. Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992. Guidance on Regulations L23
Ensuring proper manual handling training is not just about compliance—it's about protecting your most valuable asset: your people. By understanding and implementing these requirements, you can create a safer and more efficient workplace.