Course Overview
This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to shift materials safely using manual handling methods.
It includes assessing the risks associated with relocating the load, planning the relocation process and carrying out the relocation in accordance with the plan. Work must be carried out in compliance with the relevant work health and safety (WHS)/occupational health and safety (OHS) regulations concerning the manual handling and movement of loads.
Work is performed under some supervision generally within a team environment.
Session Plan
1. Introduction & Housekeeping (15 mins)
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Welcome, course outline, learning outcomes.
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WHS legislation overview, duty of care for PCBUs and workers.
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Participant expectations and safety briefing.
2. Legislative Framework & Manual Handling Principles (30 mins)
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Acts, Regulations, and Codes of Practice – Hazardous Manual Tasks.
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Safe operating procedures (SOPs) and workplace responsibilities.
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Musculoskeletal disorders – causes, symptoms, prevention.
3. Identifying Hazards & Risk Assessment (45 mins)
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Types of loads and methods of relocation.
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Hazard identification (goods, environment, processes).
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Risk assessment and controls: mechanical aids, route planning, and PPE.
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Workplace scenario discussion.
4. Practical Skills: Individual Manual Handling Techniques (60 mins)
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Correct lifting, lowering, carrying, pushing, and pulling techniques.
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Size-to-weight ratio, points of balance, and safe zones.
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Demonstration by trainer followed by participant practice.
5. Practical Skills: Team Lift & Communication (45 mins)
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Coordinating team lifting tasks: leader roles, communication methods, sequencing.
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Group activity – team lift assessment.
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Debrief and discussion.
6. Fatigue Management, Setting Down & Checking Goods (30 mins)
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Warning signs of fatigue and prevention strategies.
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Safe setting down of relocated goods (individual and team).
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Post-task checks: load stability, hazard control, damage checks.
7. Assessment & Close (15 mins)
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Theory questions (written or oral).
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Practical demonstration – individual and group assessments.
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Course review and feedback.
Learning Outcomes
On completion, participants will be able to:
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Identify and assess risks in manual handling tasks.
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Apply safe manual handling practices in line with workplace procedures.
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Coordinate and perform individual and team lifts safely.
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Understand legislative requirements and fatigue management strategies.
