About the Manual Handling Course
Manual handling is defined as any transporting or supporting of a load by one or more workers using hand or bodily force. In Ireland, the legal obligation to provide manual handling training applies to virtually every workplace — from hospitals and construction sites to offices and retail outlets. The specific duty stems from the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007, which transpose European Directive 90/269/EEC into Irish law.
This course, delivered by Collier Training Solutions, meets the requirements of Irish legislation. It combines a classroom-based theory session with a comprehensive hands-on practical component in which every participant practises correct technique under instructor supervision. Both a written knowledge check and a practical assessment are used to confirm competence before certificates are issued.
Course Modules
Legislation and Employer Obligations
- Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005
- General Application Regulations 2007
- HSA guidance on manual handling
- Employee and employer duties
Anatomy, Biomechanics, and Injury Mechanisms
- Structure of the spine and intervertebral discs
- Muscles and ligaments involved in lifting
- How injuries occur and common injury patterns
- Cumulative versus acute injury
Risk Assessment Using the TILE Framework
- Task — nature of the handling activity
- Individual — physical capability and condition
- Load — weight, shape, grip points, and stability
- Environment — space, floor surface, lighting
Safe Technique — Practical Component
- Correct posture and foot positioning
- Lifting from floor level and above waist height
- Lowering loads safely
- Carrying, pushing, and pulling techniques
- Team lifting and coordination
- Using mechanical aids: pallet trucks, trolleys, hoists
Assessment and Certification
Participants who successfully complete the written and practical assessments receive a manual handling certificate. The certificate is typically issued on the day of training and is valid for 3 years from the date of issue. Certificates are suitable for inclusion in employee health and safety files, contractor documentation, and PASS or Safe-T-Cert safety management system records.
Participants who do not reach the required standard in the first attempt are given additional practice time before re-assessment. In cases where a participant cannot demonstrate competence, they are given detailed feedback and a plan for re-attendance.
Who Should Attend?
Any employee in Ireland whose work involves manual handling activities should attend this course. There is no minimum or maximum age requirement, but participants should be physically capable of performing the lifting exercises during the practical session. The course is appropriate for new employees who have never received formal training and for experienced workers due for a 3-year refresher.
The course is sector-neutral — the skills taught apply across healthcare, warehousing, construction, retail, office, hospitality, and any other industry where loads are moved. Industry-specific examples can be incorporated on request, particularly for healthcare and construction organisations.
Course Details at a Glance
Duration
Half-day (approx. 4 hours)
Certificate validity
3 years
Delivery
On-site or facility-based
Group size
Up to 12 per session
Assessment
Written + practical
Book this Course
Available on-site at your premises or at our Dunshaughlin, Co. Meath training facility.