Bespoke manual handling training for one construction group

M.J. Hillson Ltd, a specialist provider of high-quality carpentry and joinery services to the construction sector, along with its sister company Innovation On-Site Ltd, which focuses on window installation, recognised the inherent manual handling risks associated with their on-site activities. In response, the group made a strategic decision to develop a bespoke manual handling training package tailored specifically to the practical needs and environments of their workforce.

To inform the training design, manual handling expert Alistair Bromhead conducted multiple site visits to observe typical tasks and gather relevant photographs and video footage. This visual and contextual material was then incorporated into a draft handler training programme.

The draft training package was presented and refined through two City & Guilds Accredited Manual Handling Train the Trainer courses, attended by 20 managers and supervisors. These sessions were structured to complement the participants’ extensive sectoral experience by enhancing their understanding of key areas such as:

• The principles of safe handling practice
• Common injuries and relevant anatomy
• Manual handling risk assessment
• Current legislation
• Effective training and communication techniques

Following these sessions, the 20 trained individuals rolled out the handler training programme to site operatives across both companies.

The training package was designed with flexibility at its core. Recognising that not all sites have access to dedicated training rooms, the materials were optimised for delivery via iPad or laptop. The modular nature of the training allowed content to be broken down into short, practical sessions that could be delivered on-site at convenient times. Crucially, the course focused heavily on practical handling techniques, empowering trainers to tailor sessions to the specific loads, tasks, and conditions relevant to their teams.

Mark Hillson (Group Managing Director) commented:

“We wanted a more bespoke approach to manual handling training—one that truly reflected the tasks our teams face day-to-day. The final package has been well received by both managers and operatives. It’s practical, accessible, and relevant, and we’ve already seen a noticeable improvement in awareness and technique on site.”

This collaborative, evidence-based approach has helped M.J. Hillson Ltd and Innovation On-Site Ltd not only improve manual handling practices but also demonstrate a strong commitment to the health, safety, and long-term well-being of their workforce