Manual Handling Guide for Employees in Ireland
Everything employees need to know about Manual Handling at work - your rights, responsibilities, training requirements, and how to protect yourself from injury.
Employee Rights Regarding Manual Handling
Irish health and safety law gives employees important rights relating to manual handling at work.
Right to Training
Your employer must provide Manual Handling Training before you perform tasks involving lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling loads.
Right to Equipment
You can request appropriate equipment like trolleys, hoists, or lifting aids to make manual handling tasks safer.
Right to Safe Systems
Your employer must implement safe systems of work that minimise manual handling risks, including team lifting for heavy loads.
Right to Report Concerns
You can raise concerns about unsafe manual handling without fear of negative consequences from your employer.
Your Responsibilities as an Employee
While employers have primary responsibility for workplace safety, employees also have legal duties under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005:
- Attend training - Participate in Manual Handling Training provided by your employer
- Use equipment - Use lifting aids and equipment as instructed
- Follow procedures - Apply safe techniques learned in training
- Report hazards - Notify supervisors of unsafe conditions
- Do not take risks - Never attempt to lift beyond your capability
You have a duty to take reasonable care of your own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by your actions at work.
What to Do If You Are Not Trained
If your employer asks you to perform manual handling tasks but has not provided training, you should:
- Politely point out that you have not received training
- Ask when training will be provided
- Request the task be delayed or reassigned until you are trained
- Document your concerns in writing if needed
- Contact the HSA if concerns are not addressed
What If I Am Already Injured?
If you have suffered a manual handling injury at work:
- Report the injury to your employer immediately
- Seek medical attention
- Ensure the injury is recorded in the accident book
- Consider seeking legal advice for serious injuries
Understanding Manual Handling Training
Manual Handling Training teaches you how to lift, carry, push, and pull loads safely. The training covers:
- Legal framework - Understanding Irish health and safety law
- Risk assessment - The TILE method (Task, Individual, Load, Environment)
- Body mechanics - How your spine and muscles work
- Injury prevention - How injuries occur and how to avoid them
- Practical techniques - Safe methods for different handling tasks
Good Manual Handling Training empowers you to protect yourself. The techniques you learn can prevent injuries that could affect your entire working life.
Can I Complete Training Myself?
Yes. While employers should provide or arrange training, you can also complete a Manual Handling Course independently. This is useful if:
- You are job seeking and want to be ready for employment
- Your current employer has not yet organised training
- You want to refresh your knowledge
- You work in a casual or contract role
Our online course costs €30 and provides an instant certificate upon completion. Many job seekers complete the course to improve their employability.
How to Protect Yourself at Work
Beyond formal training, here are practical steps to protect yourself from manual handling injuries:
- Plan ahead - Think before lifting. Is there a better way? Can you use equipment?
- Check the load - Test the weight before committing to the lift
- Get a good grip - Ensure you have secure handholds
- Keep loads close - Hold items close to your body
- Bend your knees - Use your leg muscles, not your back
- Avoid twisting - Move your feet to turn, do not twist at the waist
- Ask for help - Team lift for heavy or awkward loads
Questions Employees Ask
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