Supporting people with disabilities is often very hands-on. For that reason, you will need to complete formal Manual Handling Training to learn the skills required to care for individuals properly and respectfully with a safety-first approach.

At Collaboration Learning, we offer free Manual Handling Training for Disability Support Workers (DSWs) as part of our entry-level disability courses.

In this article, we explore this critical training in depth – what it is, the core components and how to complete Manual Handling Training to give yourself the essential skills for working in the disability sector.

What is Manual Handling Training for Disability Support Workers?

Disability Support Workers often assist individuals with limited mobility, requiring them to perform tasks like lifting, transferring, or repositioning clients. Without proper Manual Handling Training, these tasks can pose significant risks to both the worker and the person receiving care, including injuries like strains or falls.

Manual Handling Training equips support workers with the knowledge and techniques to safely move or assist clients, using tools like hoists or slings and following ergonomic practices. This training not only protects physical health but also ensures the dignity and safety of those being supported.

While not an accredited part of any disability courses, this is viewed by employers as essential for workers in this sector. As such, our Collaboration Learning trainers provide this as an additional component to the CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability), ensuring students are equipped with these critical skills before entering the workplace and ready to meet the physical demands of the DSW job.

What Does Manual Handling Training Involve?

Many people underestimate the physicality involved in supporting people with disabilities. It is critical for support workers to know precisely how to handle their clients properly to avoid any risk of accidents or injury. It also helps them to keep the dignity of their clients’ front of mind and to always work respectfully.

On our Manual Handling Training course, you will learn:

  • Risk Assessment: How to identify and evaluate risks associated with manual handling tasks.
  • Safe Techniques: Proper lifting, carrying, and moving techniques to minimise strain and reduce injury risk.
  • Use of Equipment: How to safely operate aids like hoists, slings, and slide sheets for moving individuals with limited mobility.
  • Posture and Ergonomics: Best practices for maintaining good posture and avoiding strain during repetitive tasks.
  • Legislation and Policies: Understanding workplace health and safety regulations related to manual handling.
  • Teamwork and Communication: Coordinating with colleagues to perform tasks safely and effectively.
  • Client Dignity and Safety: Ensuring that the person being assisted is comfortable, safe, and treated with respect throughout the process.

This training prepares you to perform manual handling tasks safely and confidently in your role supporting people with disabilities, particularly as a Disability Support Worker.

How to Complete Manual Handling Training

Due to the physical aspect of teaching and learning the skills involved in this course, Collaboration Learning offers our manual handling training for disability support workers face to face.

It is currently open to students enrolled in the Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability), who are invited to complete this additional training in person at one of our Collaboration Learning training facilities in Caboolture or Browns Plains.

Manual Handling Training is conducted in one session and runs for between 3-6 hours depending on the number of students taking part and the size of the class.

In terms of assessment, practical skills learned are observed in both simulated and workplace conditions as part of the Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) course core units of competency. As such, students are required to take this course prior to commencing their work placement. Afterwards, students receive a Certificate of Participation for the practical skills learned.

Ready to Study Manual Handling Training for Disability Support Workers?

Supporting people physically is a core component of support work, particularly for people with disabilities – and it’s essential you know what you’re doing if this is your chosen career path.

Collaboration Learning offers Manual Handling Training for all individuals enrolled in the CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) and studying to become a Disability Support Worker.

With courses starting frequently – and the course fees currently subsidised by the government – there has never been a better time to get started on a Disability course.

So, now you’ve explored the manual handling course, why not arrange a chat with a Career and Course Advisor who can help you get going with your studies as soon as possible and launch your career as a DSW!

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