The RSPH Level 2 Award in Principles of Manual Handling is an Ofqual-regulated Level 2 qualification designed to provide learners with essential knowledge and understanding of safe manual handling in workplace environments. The qualification is awarded by the Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH) and carries Ofqual qualification number 601/6346/X, providing a formally regulated framework for learning about manual handling hazards, risk control and safe working practices.

The qualification focuses on the principles required to reduce risks associated with lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, carrying and moving workplace loads. It addresses common injuries and ill health associated with incorrect manual handling, employer and employee responsibilities, and the consequences of failing to meet workplace health and safety requirements.

A major learning area is manual handling risk assessment. Learners develop knowledge of hazards and risks, the risk assessment process, the TILE approach covering Task, Individual, Load and Environment, and the hierarchy of controls used to eliminate or reduce manual handling risks.

The qualification also covers safe movement principles, basic ergonomics and biomechanics, load characteristics, safe lifting approaches, team handling and the appropriate use of manual handling equipment. Learners explore equipment such as trolleys, pallets, conveyors, hoists, lifting frames and slings, together with requirements for inspection, maintenance, servicing and examination.

For UK learners, the qualification provides knowledge aligned with relevant workplace legislation, including the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992. For international learners, its core principles provide transferable knowledge for recognising and controlling manual handling risks within different workplace health and safety frameworks. The qualification is particularly relevant to anyone undertaking manual handling activities involving workplace materials, goods or equipment.