This course equips learners with the knowledge and practical skills to safely perform manual material handling tasks and prevent musculoskeletal injuries. It integrates behavioral safety principles, ergonomic risk assessment, and planning techniques to ensure compliance with the Ergonomics Regulations (2019) under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, 85 of 1993.

Course Content:

• Course Introduction – Overview of manual handling risks and compliance obligations.

• Introduction to Manual Handling – Fundamentals of safe lifting and carrying.

• Wellness – Importance of physical readiness and fatigue management.

• FERMI – Understanding the risk assessment tool for manual handling tasks.

• Manual Handling Injuries – Common injuries and prevention strategies.

• Behavioral Safety & Responsibilities – Worker and employer roles in safe handling.

• Key Risk Factors – Posture, force, repetition, and environmental considerations.

• Planning Manual Handling – Pre-task planning and use of mechanical aids.

• Hierarchy of Controls – Applying control measures to reduce risk.

• Safe Lifting Weights – Guidelines for weight limits and team lifting.

• Quiz – Knowledge check to reinforce learning outcomes.

Regulatory Alignment:

• Occupational Health and Safety Act, 85 of 1993 – Employer duties for safe systems of work.

• Ergonomics Regulations (2019) – Identification, assessment, and control of ergonomic risks, including manual material handling.