Manual handling is one of the leading causes of workplace injuries in the UK, often resulting in musculoskeletal disorders and long-term health issues. To mitigate these risks, employers are increasingly turning to structured training programmes to educate their staff. The ICTQual Level 2 Award in Fundamentals of Manual Handling is a practical and industry-recognised qualification that provides learners with the essential knowledge and techniques to carry out manual handling activities safely and effectively.
The primary aim of the ICTQual Level 2 Award is to reduce workplace injuries associated with poor manual handling practices. The course introduces learners to the risks, legal obligations, and safe techniques required to move and handle loads correctly.
Whether you are an employer aiming to upskill your team or an individual looking to strengthen your workplace safety credentials, the ICTQual Level 2 Award in Fundamentals of Manual Handling is a valuable and accessible solution.
All About ICTQual Level 2 Award in Fundamentals of Manual Handling
Course Overview
The ICTQual Level 2 Award in Fundamentals of Manual Handling is a nationally recognised qualification designed to provide learners with the essential skills and knowledge to perform manual handling tasks safely and effectively. This course supports compliance with UK health and safety legislation and promotes a culture of safety across various workplace environments.
Focusing on the core principles of safe lifting, carrying, and moving techniques, the course helps reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries and workplace accidents. Learners gain a clear understanding of their legal responsibilities and practical steps they can take to minimise manual handling risks.
This qualification is ideal for employees in roles that involve physical handling of goods, such as warehouse operatives, healthcare assistants, construction workers, and hospitality staff. It also benefits employers by improving workplace safety, reducing absenteeism, and ensuring compliance with the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992.
Delivered through flexible learning formats, the ICTQual Level 2 Award is accessible, practical, and immediately applicable in the workplace—making it a valuable addition to any employee training programme.
Study Units
- Introduction to Manual Handling
- Legal Requirements and Workplace Responsibilities
- Risk Assessment in Manual Handling
- Safe Lifting Techniques and Best Practices
- Use of Mechanical Aids and Equipment
- Injury Prevention and Ergonomic Considerations
To enrol in the ICTQual Level 2 Award in Fundamentals of Manual Handling, learners must meet the following entry criteria:
- Minimum Age: Learners must be at least 16 years old at the time of registration.
- Educational Background: There are no formal academic requirements. However, a basic level of literacy and numeracy is recommended to support understanding of the course content.
- Work Experience: No prior work experience is required. This course is suitable for both new entrants and existing employees who engage in manual handling tasks.
- Language Proficiency: As the course is delivered in English, learners should have a reasonable command of spoken and written English to fully engage with the materials and complete the assessment.
These requirements ensure the course is accessible while maintaining a level of readiness for successful participation and learning.
The ICTQual Level 2 Award in Fundamentals of Manual Handling is suitable for a wide range of individuals across different sectors. This course is ideal for:
- Employees involved in lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling tasks
- Warehouse and logistics staff handling goods or equipment
- Healthcare and social care workers responsible for moving patients or supplies
- Construction and maintenance workers performing physical tasks on site
- Hospitality and catering staff involved in manual stock handling
- Supervisors and team leaders overseeing manual handling operations
- New recruits who require initial manual handling training
- Organisations aiming to meet health and safety compliance requirements
This qualification supports safer workplace practices and is relevant for anyone in a role that involves physical movement or load handling.
Learning Outcomes
Introduction to Manual Handling
- Understand the definition and scope of manual handling in the workplace
- Recognise the common risks and injuries associated with manual handling tasks
- Identify the importance of safe manual handling for personal and organisational well-being
Legal Requirements and Workplace Responsibilities
- Gain knowledge of the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 and related legislation
- Understand the legal duties of employers and employees regarding manual handling
- Recognise the importance of health and safety policies in the workplace
Risk Assessment in Manual Handling
- Learn how to identify hazards associated with manual handling activities
- Understand the key steps involved in conducting a manual handling risk assessment
- Apply risk reduction measures to minimise potential harm
Safe Lifting Techniques and Best Practices
- Demonstrate correct lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling methods
- Understand the principles of body mechanics and posture in manual handling
- Apply best practices to reduce strain and prevent injury during physical tasks
Use of Mechanical Aids and Equipment
- Identify common mechanical aids used in manual handling
- Understand the benefits of using lifting equipment to reduce manual effort
- Learn how to safely use and inspect mechanical aids in accordance with workplace procedures
Injury Prevention and Ergonomic Considerations
- Understand how poor manual handling techniques contribute to musculoskeletal injuries
- Recognise the importance of ergonomics in designing safe work practices
- Implement strategies to prevent long-term health issues related to manual handling
FAQs ICTQual Level 2 Award in Fundamentals of Manual Handling
