Manual Handling Training

Introduction

Pinnacle is the leading provider of tailored injury prevention and training programs. Our programs promote self-management strategies, optimal movement patterns and efficient manual handling techniques. Our programs are designed to address both organisational and worker needs in order to minimise the risk of injuries. This is achieved by increasing worker awareness and empowering them to take a proactive approach with regard to their own health requirements, their safety and the safety of their co-workers.


Why provide Manual Handling Training?

Our Manual Handling Training programs aim to:
  • Educate participants on information relating to manual handling techniques, exercise, posture awareness, back care and self management strategies;

  • Describe and apply 5 key postures and 4 key principles required to perform manual handling tasks;

  • Demonstrate appropriate techniques within an array of manual handling scenarios;

  • Increase the awareness of optimal manual handling techniques and attempt to break ‘bad’ habits;

  • Promote self-reliance in the management of personal health;

  • Increase the knowledge and awareness of participants regarding Work, Health and Safety legislation as it relates to manual handling; and

  • Minimise the risk of musculoskeletal sprain and strain injuries.

How is the training provided?

Training is facilitated by one of our Registered Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists or Exercise Physiologists. Session duration is typically between 1-3 hours, however we can tailor a timeframe to suit your staff schedules and organisational requirements. Ideally, the session is delivered to groups of up to 12-15 participants to enable practice of the tasks, postures and exercises. The trainer uses a variety of teaching methods including small group work and practical activities in order to assist with learning. Each participant will receive full colour handouts depicting key manual handling postures, principles and injury prevention exercises.


What do you need to provide for the training?

We will require a training room or area that has sufficient space for the participants to be able to stand and move through the postures and exercises. For the theoretical component, we will require a data projector and laptop (we can provide these if need be). We will also require resources and aids relevant to the group to enhance the relevance of the session, and optimise learning and practice in their manual handling techniques. These can be confirmed following the confirmation of tasks to be practised within the session.


What is covered during the training?

Our programs are highly practical as well as being task specific, incorporating the use of your tools/equipment (where possible). Our training is based on the Manutention method of manual handling or principles of manual handling that are universally accepted as "best practice" - neutral spine, keep the load close, movement of the feet. The interactive training will include theory and practical elements as follows:


Legislation and Risk Management Process
  • Brief overview of relevant sections of the WHS Act (2012)

  • Hazardous Manual Tasks Code of Practice (2011)

  • Four stage approach to risk management – hazard identification, risk assessment, control, monitor/review

Basic Anatomy and Human Biomechanics of the Spine and Joints
  • Brief overview of the spine and major joints susceptible to musculo-skeletal disorders

  • Micro trauma

  • Soft tissue creep

Preventative Measures
  • Injury prevention stretches and exercises

Manual Handling
  • Implementing correct posture when performing different work tasks

  • Theory and practise of 5 key manual handling postures and 4 key principles

  • Practical demonstration, group discussion and participation in some of the most common tasks performed by workers. This may include the following:

Ancillary (tasks such as):
  • Mopping

  • Vacuuming

  • Laundry work

  • Prolonged postures

Patient Care (tasks such as):
  • Sit to stand / stand to sit transfers

  • Assisting client into car

  • Lifter use

  • Slide sheet – up the bed and rolling

Administration (tasks such as):
  • Prolonged postures

  • Overhead or below waist work

  • Pushing trolley

  • Moving archive boxes

Outdoor (tasks such as):
  • Using equipment eg hedge trimmers

  • Pushing lawn mower

  • Loading ute

  • Overhead work
Prior to the training, we will confirm a list of manual tasks you wish for us to cover during the training that is specific to the work group.