Training and Safety for Irish Businesses

Manual handling is an everyday task in various workplaces across Ireland, potentially posing significant risks if not managed correctly. Ensuring the safety and welfare of employees in relation to manual handling is paramount. This article delves into the various facets of manual handling in the Irish workplace, exploring the legislation, risk assessment, and training guidelines that safeguard employees from potential injuries and ill health resulting from inadequate manual handling practices.

Legislation on Manual Handling

The legislation covering manual handling in Ireland is outlined in the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work, (General Applications) Regulations 2007, Chapter 4 of Part 2. This comprehensive legislation mandates the conduct of a manual handling risk assessment before deciding which tasks need to be minimised or avoided. Moreover, it necessitates the organisation of tasks to enable the use of mechanical means to reduce manual handling of loads, and provision of instruction and training to the relevant staff.

Assessing Manual Handling Tasks

Not every manual handling task necessitates assessment. Nevertheless, a manual handling task must be evaluated if it involves transporting or supporting any load by one or more employees and poses a risk, particularly of back injury, due to its characteristics or unfavourable ergonomic conditions as outlined in Regulation 68 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work, (General Application) Regulations 2007.

Manual Handling Risk Assessment

Risk assessment involves a meticulous process encompassing five stages. It begins with collecting information on how the task is performed, followed by gathering all technical details, identifying the problems or risk factors, determining potential solutions, and finally, reviewing the effectiveness of the control measures implemented.

Guidance and Training

Various guidance documents and training systems, such as the Guide to the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work and the Manual Handling Training System – 2010 Revision, are available to provide ample information and directions to comply with Manual Handling of Loads Regulation. Manual handling training in Ireland should be delivered by a FETAC Level 6 Manual Handling Instructor to ensure adherence to the set standards.

Refresher Training

It’s imperative to note that employees require refresher training at intervals not more than every three years or when there is any major change in the work involved or equipment used. The absence of specific time duration for manual training courses underscores the necessity for comprehensive coverage of the relevant topics by the instructor.

Work with us

Proper understanding and implementation of the guidelines for manual handling in the workplace play a crucial role in averting potential injuries and promoting the welfare and productivity of employees. A conducive working environment free from the perils of inappropriate manual handling practices is not just a statutory requirement but a fundamental right of every employee. 

About Us

At Salutem Advisory, we are steadfast in our commitment to enhancing workplace safety throughout Ireland. We offer an extensive range of training and safety courses tailored to suit the unique needs of your company. Safeguard your team from the risks associated with manual handling by investing in quality training and safety courses from Salutem Advisory. Choose safety, choose Salutem Advisory. To learn more about our services and schedule a consultation, contact us today. Your safety is our priority