Manual Handling Objects

We are one of the leading manual handling course providers in Wales. In the UK, St John Ambulance is one of the voluntary aid societies (VAS) who are recognised by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) as standard setters for first aid training in accordance with the Health and Safety (First Aid) regulations 1981. We don't require external accreditation through an Awarding Organisation.

A manual handling task will involve moving a load by hand or bodily force. This is a very common activity, and you likely do it not just at the workplace but also at home. The supporting of a load with your body opens up the potential risk of a manual handling injury. If an employee suffers a workplace injury that could have been prevented by the employer or through training, this can have serious business repercussions. That's why it's important to take a manual handling training course to improve health and safety at work.

The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 is the primary law for manual handling operations regulations in the UK. All employers must comply with this law to ensure best practices for health and safety in the UK. That's why it's vital for employers to carry out a manual handling risk assessment and to implement control measures.

This Scheme has been developed by the Welsh Assembly Government, Health & Safety Executive (HSE), Unitary Authorities and NHS Wales. The point of this is to make standards consistent across the country. Employers and employees both benefit from having a recognised training standard when it comes to manual handling that can be transferred to new departments and other organisations.

Workers can sustain all kinds of painful injuries from lifting, holding, and carrying things in the wrong way. They can cause people to suffer pain and take absence from work. In the worst case, someone can be left with long-term health consequences. The 3 most common injuries associated with moving and holding objects are back, hand, and foot injuries. Improper handling can also lead to injuries such as trips, falls, and hernias. By attending a manual handling course, delegates can learn how best to avoid these injuries through an awareness of the correct manual handling techniques.

Research has shown that the older we get, the more at-risk we become. Injuries are most common for those between 45-54, but also for those over the age of 55. This might be because they still use old training habits that we do not recommend nowadays. However, the body is not as strong as it was when we were younger. That's why it is important for management to be aware of the risk associated for employees doing manual handling. They should assess the age and physical abilities of employees when assigning a manual handling task.

We offer courses in Moving & Handling Objects across Wales at our training centres. We can also teach at your premises if six or more of your employees require training.