Manual Handling Course
Practical training to assess and lift loads safely within your own capabilities, minimising the risk of back injury. This 3-hour interactive course combines theory and hands-on practice, tailored to your specific workplace. On-site delivery across Ireland, public courses in Longford, or blended learning options available.
Book This Course
Course Overview
The Manual Handling Course can be tailored to suit individual workplaces. The course is highly interactive and involves both theory and practical sessions. Learners are assessed by the instructor in safe handling techniques and the principles of safe moving and handling.
Manual Handling Course delivered by Phoenix STS.
📊 Why Manual Handling Training Matters
Back pain from manual handling is equally common among males and females.
What is Manual Handling?
Legal Definition
Regulation 68 of the 2007 Regulations defines ‘manual handling of loads’ as:
“Any transporting or supporting of a load by one or more employees and includes lifting, putting down, pushing, pulling, carrying, or moving a load, which, by reason of its characteristics or of unfavourable ergonomic conditions, involves risk, particularly of a back injury, to employees.”
Why Choose This Course
The Manual Handling Course provides essential practical skills to protect yourself and your staff from injury. Here is what sets this programme apart:
🏢 Workplace-Specific
Training can be tailored to suit your individual workplace, covering the specific manual handling tasks your staff perform.
🎯 Highly Interactive
Combines theory and practical sessions with hands-on demonstration and practice of safe lifting techniques.
⚖️ Legal Compliance
Meets requirements under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 and General Application Regulations 2007.
📋 TILE Risk Assessment
Learn to conduct manual handling risk assessments using the TILE methodology (Task, Individual, Load, Environment).
💻 Flexible Delivery
Available on-site at your premises, at our Longford training centre, or via blended learning with online theory.
🎓 Expert Instructors
All tutors hold a minimum QQI Level 8 in their subject matter and QQI Level 6 Train-the-Trainer certification.
Course Aims
The Manual Handling Course aims to:
- Ensure learners understand the concept of manual handling and its risks
- Inform learners of the extent of back pain and its causes
- Demonstrate how to lift and carry loads safely
- Highlight measures to reduce manual handling through organisational solutions, reduced loads, assisted techniques, and mechanical devices
Course Objectives
Upon completion of this course, learners will be able to:
- Recognise unsafe and hazardous lifting situations in the workplace
- Carry out a manual handling risk assessment using the TILE methodology
- Understand and apply the 8 principles of safe lifting
- Understand the relevant manual handling legislation in Ireland
- Understand the basic anatomy of the spine and how injuries occur
- Utilise measures to reduce common manual handling injuries in the workplace
- Ensure employers are compliant with the relevant legislation
Who Should Attend
This course is designed for all staff who perform tasks involving manual handling at their place of work:
🏭 Warehouse & Logistics Staff
Workers who regularly lift, move, and transport goods and materials.
🏗️ Construction Workers
Site workers handling building materials, tools, and equipment.
🏥 Healthcare Workers
Staff involved in moving and handling patients or medical equipment.
🛒 Retail Staff
Employees stocking shelves, handling deliveries, and moving stock.
🏢 Office Workers
Staff who lift files, equipment, or office supplies as part of their role.
🍽️ Hospitality Staff
Hotel, restaurant, and catering workers handling supplies and equipment.
Course Programme
The Manual Handling Course covers comprehensive theory and practical training:
Legislation & Regulations
- Safety Health & Welfare at Work Act 2005
- General Application Regulations 2007
- Employer and employee duties
- Compliance requirements
Anatomy & Ergonomics
- Musculoskeletal system
- Anatomy, structure and function of the spine
- Ergonomics principles
- Posture and body mechanics
Safe Handling Principles
- 8 principles of safe handling
- Safe handling techniques
- TILE risk assessment
- Maintaining fitness
Practical Training
- Demonstration of techniques
- Hands-on practice
- Practical manual handling exercises
- Practical assessment
Pre-Course Requirements
Before Attending
There are no formal prerequisites for this course. However:
- English language proficiency: Training is delivered in English; learners must have fluency in English
- Appropriate clothing: Learners should wear comfortable clothing suitable for an interactive and practical course
- Specific requirements: Please let us know if learners have any specific learner requirements
Course Details
Duration
- 3 hours
- Half-day course
- Includes practical assessment
Class Size
- Maximum 12 learners
- Allows adequate practice time
- Interactive learning environment
Training Methods
- Classroom PowerPoint presentation
- Instructor demonstration
- Hands-on practice
- Practical assessment
Assessment
- Full participation required
- Practical demonstration
- Safe lifting techniques
- Instructor observation
Certification
Your Certification
Upon successful completion, learners will receive a Phoenix STS Training Certificate.
Refresher training should be completed before your certificate expires to maintain compliance.
Our Instructors
All our tutors are experienced in delivering manual handling training in workplace settings. They hold:
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Courses and Services
Page last updated: January 2026
