Manual Handling Training or Moving and Handling Training?

Both are correct, but their usage depends on the context and regional preferences:

Manual Handling Training

• In UK more common in workplace safety.

• Focuses on lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling loads safely to prevent injuries.

• Often used in general industries (warehousing, construction, offices).

• Based on regulations like the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (UK).

Moving and Handling Training

• in UK more common in healthcare and social care settings.

• Includes manual handling but also covers assisting people (e.g., helping patients move, using hoists, sliding sheets).

• Often required for nurses, caregivers, and support workers.

• Aligns with guidelines like the Health and Safety at Work Act and CQC standards for care providers.

Which Training Description Should You Use?

• For general workplace safety (lifting boxes, equipment, etc.) → Manual Handling Training.

• For healthcare, nursing, or caregiving roles → Moving and Handling Training.

• Although the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, the key difference lies in their scope: Moving and Handling is broader and encompasses person-handling techniques, whereas Manual Handling typically refers specifically to object-handling.

Why is it Important to differentiate between Manual Handling Training and Moving and Handling Training?

• In the UK, both Manual Handling Training and Moving and Handling Training are legally required in certain workplaces, but the specific obligations depend on the industry and nature of the work. Below is a breakdown of the key legal requirements:

Manual Handling Training (For Objects)

Relevant Laws & Regulations:

• Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (MHOR) – The main law requiring employers to:

  • Avoid hazardous manual handling where possible.

  • Assess risks when manual handling cannot be avoided.

  • Reduce risks (e.g., provide lifting aids, training).

  • Provide training on safe handling techniques.

• Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 – General duty to ensure employee safety.

Who Needs It?

• All industries where employees lift, carry, push, or pull loads (e.g., construction, warehousing, retail, offices).

• Training Available.

Key Employer Duties:

• Conduct risk assessments for manual handling tasks.
• Provide training on correct lifting techniques.
• Supply mechanical aids (trolleys, forklifts) where possible.
• Ensure employees do not lift unsafe loads (no strict weight limits, but guidance suggests ≤ 25kg for men and ≤ 16kg for women in ideal conditions).

Moving and Handling Training (For People)

Relevant Laws & Regulations:

• Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (MHOR) – Also applies to moving people.

• The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 – Requires risk assessments.

• Care Quality Commission (CQC) Standards – Mandatory for care providers.

• Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) – If hoists are used.

Who Needs It?

• Healthcare & social care workers (nurses, carers, care home staff, physiotherapists).

• Emergency services (paramedics, firefighters).

• Special education & disability support workers.

• Training Available

Key Employer Duties:

• Train staff in safe moving & handling of patients (e.g., hoists, slide sheets, repositioning).
• Conduct individual patient risk assessments.
• Avoid dangerous manual lifts (follow “No Lift” policies where possible).
• Provide specialist equipment (e.g., electric hoists, transfer boards).

Enforcement & Penalties

• Health and Safety Executive (HSE) enforces these laws.

• Failure to comply can lead to fines, prosecutions, or imprisonment.

• In care settings, the CQC can suspend or close facilities for non-compliance.

How Often Is Refresher Training Required?

• No strict legal frequency, but best practice recommends:

  • Annual refreshers (especially in healthcare).

  • When risks change (new equipment, staff, or procedures).