LICQual Level 2 Award in Manual Handling

The LICQual Level 2 Award in Manual Handling is a practical and knowledge-based qualification designed for individuals who regularly engage in manual handling activities as part of their job role. This course goes beyond the basics by providing a more in-depth understanding of manual handling principles, risk assessments, and safe working practices. It is ideal for those looking to strengthen their skills and take on greater responsibility in maintaining workplace safety.

Manual handling remains one of the leading causes of workplace injuries across industries. The LICQual Level 2 Award in Manual Handling addresses this challenge by equipping learners with the ability to identify potential hazards, evaluate risks, and apply safe handling techniques across a variety of environments. From lifting and carrying to pushing and pulling, learners will gain the tools to prevent injury and ensure both personal and team safety.

This qualification focuses on key topics such as manual handling legislation, ergonomics, control measures, and the use of mechanical aids. Participants will also learn how to conduct simple risk assessments and contribute to safe systems of work. The LICQual Level 2 Award in Manual Handling bridges the gap between awareness and accountability, making it suitable for workers who are expected to follow or implement safe manual handling procedures.

The course is relevant across a wide range of sectors including construction, logistics, healthcare, retail, and manufacturing. Whether you are a frontline worker, team leader, or responsible for supervising manual handling operations, this course offers essential knowledge that supports legal compliance and enhances productivity. With its practical focus, the LICQual Level 2 Award in Manual Handling ensures learners can apply their learning immediately in real-world settings.

Completing the LICQual Level 2 Award in Manual Handling demonstrates a clear commitment to health and safety excellence. This nationally recognised qualification supports individual career development while helping employers reduce accidents, minimise downtime, and foster a strong safety culture. It’s a valuable asset for anyone aiming to improve workplace standards through responsible manual handling practices.

Course Overview


Qualification Title

LICQual Level 2 Award in Manual Handling


Total Units

6

Total Credits

6

GLH

12

Qualification #

LICQ2200440


Qualification Specification

Download Qualification Specification

To enroll in the LICQual Level 2 Award in Manual Handling applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
  • Educational Requirements:Learners should ideally hold a basic secondary school qualification or equivalent. A prior Level 1 qualification in manual handling or health and safety is recommended but not mandatory. Basic literacy and numeracy skills are required to understand course materials and complete assessments effectively.
  • Experience:While no extensive work experience is required, the course is best suited for individuals currently involved in manual handling tasks or those with some exposure to physical work environments. The qualification is especially beneficial for workers in sectors such as warehousing, construction, healthcare, logistics, or manufacturing.
  • English Language Proficiency:As the course is delivered in English, learners should possess a minimum English proficiency equivalent to CEFR Level A2–B1. This ensures they can follow instructions, understand technical terms, and participate in discussions and written assessments confidently.

Qualification#

Unit Title

Credits

GLH

LICQ2200440-1

Advanced Understanding of Manual Handling Risks and Ergonomics

1

2

LICQ2200440-2

Manual Handling Legislation and Organisational Compliance

1

2

LICQ2200440-3

Conducting Risk Assessments for Manual Handling Tasks

1

2

LICQ2200440-4

Control Measures and Safe Handling Equipment Use

1

2

LICQ2200440-5

Manual Handling in High-Risk Environments (e.g., healthcare, construction)

1

2

LICQ2200440-6

Implementing Safe Systems of Work in Manual Handling

1

2

By the end of this course,applicants will be able to:

1. Advanced Understanding of Manual Handling Risks and Ergonomics

  • Explain the key ergonomic principles relevant to manual handling tasks.
  • Identify and evaluate the physical, environmental, and task-specific risk factors.
  • Describe how poor ergonomics and repetitive strain contribute to musculoskeletal disorders.
  • Apply knowledge of body mechanics to reduce the risk of injury during manual handling activities.

2. Manual Handling Legislation and Organisational Compliance

  • Identify current legislation and regulations governing manual handling in the workplace.
  • Understand the legal duties of employers and employees in ensuring manual handling safety.
  • Explain how organisational policies support legal compliance and risk management.
  • Recognize the importance of documentation and training in demonstrating due diligence.

3. Conducting Risk Assessments for Manual Handling Tasks

  • Describe the steps involved in performing a manual handling risk assessment.
  • Identify hazards and assess the likelihood and severity of potential injuries.
  • Recommend appropriate control measures based on the risk level identified.
  • Record and communicate findings in accordance with workplace procedures.

4. Control Measures and Safe Handling Equipment Use

  • Identify various types of mechanical and manual handling aids.
  • Understand the correct selection and use of equipment to support safer handling.
  • Explain how control measures such as job rotation and team handling reduce risk.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of maintenance and inspection requirements for handling tools and aids.

5. Manual Handling in High-Risk Environments (e.g., healthcare, construction)

  • Recognize the unique manual handling challenges in high-risk industries.
  • Apply tailored techniques for patient handling, heavy lifting, or confined space work.
  • Understand the role of sector-specific protocols and safety standards.
  • Identify additional risk controls needed when handling loads in dynamic or hazardous conditions.

6. Implementing Safe Systems of Work in Manual Handling

  • Explain the components of a safe system of work (SSOW) for manual handling.
  • Develop or follow procedures that ensure safety during manual handling tasks.
  • Monitor and report unsafe practices or equipment malfunctions.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement by suggesting updates to manual handling procedures.

This diploma is ideal for:

  • Employees who regularly perform manual handling tasks in their job roles
  • Workers in sectors such as logistics, construction, healthcare, retail, and manufacturing
  • Team leaders and supervisors responsible for monitoring manual handling activities
  • Individuals with a Level 1 qualification looking to advance their knowledge and skills
  • Staff members involved in risk assessment or implementation of safe handling procedures
  • Employers aiming to ensure compliance with manual handling legislation
  • Health and safety representatives seeking to expand their competency in handling risks
  • Temporary or contract workers who need enhanced manual handling awareness
  • Individuals preparing for a role in health and safety or occupational risk management
  • Employees returning to the workforce who require upskilling in workplace safety
  • Apprentices or trainees in physically demanding industries
  • Facilities and warehouse staff responsible for moving or storing heavy goods
  • Cleaning and maintenance personnel handling equipment or supplies
  • Forklift operators or warehouse assistants seeking broader safety training
  • Volunteers or staff in care settings involved in assisting patients or service users
  • Small business employees who manage manual handling without formal safety training
  • Anyone aiming to reduce personal injury risk and contribute to a safer working environment

Assessment and Verification

All units within this qualification are subject to internal assessment by the approved centre and external verification by LICQual. The qualification follows a criterion-referenced assessment approach, ensuring that learners meet all specified learning outcomes.

To achieve a ‘Pass’ in any unit, learners must provide valid, sufficient, and authentic evidence demonstrating their attainment of all learning outcomes and compliance with the prescribed assessment criteria. The Assessor is responsible for evaluating the evidence and determining whether the learner has successfully met the required standards.

Assessors must maintain a clear and comprehensive audit trail, documenting the basis for their assessment decisions to ensure transparency, consistency, and compliance with quality assurance requirements.