What Does Our Manual Handling Course in Perth Include?
Manual handling is part of almost every working day for carers, nurses, disability support workers, aged care employees and community care professionals. It may involve repositioning a client in bed, assisting someone into a wheelchair, moving equipment, supporting a transfer or using a hoist.
These tasks can appear straightforward until something changes.
A client may become unsteady. A wheelchair may not be positioned correctly. The available space may be smaller than expected. The worker may be tired, rushed or unfamiliar with the equipment. A movement that has been completed safely many times can suddenly place the worker, client or both at risk.
That is why a quality Manual Handling Course in Perth should cover much more than telling students to keep their backs straight and bend their knees.
At First Aid Certified, our HLTWHS005 Conduct Manual Tasks Safely course combines online theory with practical, hands-on training using equipment commonly found in aged care, disability support, healthcare and home care environments.
Students learn how to recognise hazardous manual tasks, assess risk, select appropriate control measures and use safer movement techniques. They also gain practical experience with equipment such as hydraulic or powered hoists, slide sheets, wheelchairs, hospital beds and transfer aids.
Most importantly, students learn how to think before they move.
This matters because body-stressing injuries remain a major workplace safety problem in Australia. Safe Work Australia reported more than 50,000 serious body-stressing claims in 2023–24, representing more than one-third of all serious claims. WorkSafe WA also identifies hazardous manual tasks as the primary cause of injury in healthcare and social assistance, with nurses and carers among the workers at greatest risk.
What Is HLTWHS005 Conduct Manual Tasks Safely?
HLTWHS005 Conduct Manual Tasks Safely is a nationally recognised unit of competency.
It is designed to provide workers with the skills and knowledge required to recognise potentially hazardous manual tasks, prepare for those tasks and complete them safely. The official unit applies to workers involved in manual handling and requires skills to be used in accordance with relevant legislation, standards and industry codes of practice.
The course is particularly relevant for people working in:
- Disability and NDIS support
- Residential and community aged care
- Nursing and healthcare
- Home and community care
- Allied health assistance
- Supported accommodation
- Hospitals and medical facilities
- Individual support and personal care roles
Our course is contextualised for the care environment. This is important because moving a person is very different from moving a box.
A box generally does not become anxious, lose balance, experience pain, change direction or have a medical condition that affects the task. A client may have limited mobility, weakness on one side, cognitive impairment, fragile skin, pain, joint restrictions or difficulty following instructions.
Safe client movement therefore requires technical knowledge, communication, respect, planning and an ability to respond when circumstances change.
A Flexible Blended Manual Handling Course
One of the biggest advantages of our Manual Handling Training in Perth is its blended delivery format.
Rather than spending most of the day sitting in a classroom completing theory, students complete the online learning component from the comfort of their own home. They can work through the theory at a suitable time before attending their practical class.
Students then attend approximately one and a half hours of focused face-to-face training.
This means classroom time can be used for the part of the course that benefits most from being completed in person: practising movements, using equipment, receiving trainer feedback and demonstrating practical competency.
The blended structure provides the best of both worlds.
The online component develops the student’s understanding of hazards, risk management, workplace responsibilities, injury prevention and safe manual-task principles. The practical session allows the student to apply that knowledge using realistic care equipment under trainer supervision.
It is convenient, but it is not a shortcut.
Students must still complete the required learning and assessments. The difference is that they do not need to spend unnecessary hours in a classroom covering material that can be completed effectively online.
For people working shifts, studying, managing family responsibilities or trying to meet an employer’s training deadline, that flexibility can make completing a course far easier.
Practical Training With Hydraulic and Powered Hoists
A major part of our practical training involves the use of patient lifting hoists, sometimes referred to as hydraulic lifts.
Depending on the equipment and client requirements, care environments may use standing hoists, full-body mobile hoists or other powered lifting devices. These aids are designed to reduce the amount of high-force manual lifting required from workers and support safer client transfers.
However, simply having access to a hoist does not automatically make a transfer safe.
Workers must understand how to:
- Identify whether a hoist is appropriate for the planned task
- Check the client’s care or mobility plan
- Inspect the equipment before use
- Recognise visible damage or equipment concerns
- Select the correct sling or attachment
- Position equipment appropriately
- Communicate with the client throughout the transfer
- Work effectively with another staff member when required
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and workplace procedures
- Stop the task when conditions are unsafe
Students are introduced to the practical considerations involved in standing and full-body transfers. They learn why equipment selection, client assessment, positioning and communication are just as important as operating the lifting mechanism itself.
A hoist should never be treated as a machine that simply “does the lifting.” It is part of a broader system involving the client, staff members, sling, environment, care plan and equipment condition.
Our practical training allows students to see how these elements work together.
Learning to Use Slide Sheets
Slide sheets are another important manual handling aid used during the course.
They are commonly used to help reposition a person in bed while reducing friction between the client and the mattress. When selected and used correctly, a slide sheet can significantly reduce the physical force needed to complete a movement.
During training, students learn about:
- The purpose of slide sheets
- Situations in which they may be used
- Preparing the bed and surrounding area
- Maintaining safer body positioning
- Communicating with the client
- Coordinating movements with another worker
- Reducing unnecessary pulling and reaching
- Removing and storing equipment appropriately
- Following infection-control and workplace procedures
Slide sheets are useful, but they do not remove the need for planning.
Workers must still consider the client’s mobility, pain, skin integrity, behaviour, size, ability to participate and any restrictions contained in the individual care plan.
The height of the bed, available space and number of workers required must also be considered before starting.
A key lesson is that an aid is only effective when it is suitable for the task and used correctly. Poor technique with good equipment can still create risk.
Safe Wheelchair Handling and Transfers
Wheelchairs are used every day across aged care, disability support, hospitals and community care, but they are not all identical.
Different wheelchairs may have removable footplates, adjustable armrests, specialised cushions, positioning supports, anti-tip features or powered components. The needs and abilities of the person using the wheelchair can also vary considerably.
Our Manual Handling Course for carers and support workers includes practical discussion and training around wheelchair safety.
Students consider factors such as:
- The condition and position of the wheelchair
- Brakes, footplates and removable components
- The direction and distance of the transfer
- Flooring, obstacles and available space
- The client’s ability to stand, weight-bear or follow instructions
- Whether an aid or additional worker is required
- Safe pushing and manoeuvring techniques
- Worker posture when assisting the client
- Communication before, during and after movement
Students also learn why a transfer should not begin simply because a wheelchair has been placed next to a bed or chair.
The whole environment must be assessed.
A poorly positioned footplate can create a trip risk. An obstacle can prevent a worker from stepping or turning safely. A transfer distance that is too large may encourage reaching, twisting or sudden force. A client who is not ready may become frightened or attempt to move unexpectedly.
Safe wheelchair handling starts before the client moves.
Hospital Beds, Transfer Aids and Realistic Care Equipment
Our practical training uses equipment and scenarios relevant to real care environments.
The First Aid Certified course includes practical experience and discussion involving equipment such as:
- Hospital-style beds
- Standing hoists
- Full-body hoists
- Slide sheets
- Wheelchairs
- Transfer belts
- Manual handling aids
- Log-roll techniques
- Client repositioning equipment
The course also covers risk assessment, safer posture, workplace responsibilities and practical tasks contextualised for nursing, aged care and disability support.
Using realistic equipment is important because it allows students to become more comfortable with the physical environment in which they may be expected to work.
A student can read about a hoist online, but that does not provide the same learning experience as seeing how large the equipment is, how it moves, how the sling is positioned or how much space may be needed around a bed.
Similarly, watching a slide-sheet demonstration is not the same as practising body position, coordinating with a partner and receiving immediate feedback from a trainer.
Our face-to-face practical is designed to turn theory into usable workplace skills.
Understanding the Biomechanics of Safer Movement
Biomechanics refers to the way forces affect the human body during movement.
In manual handling, understanding basic biomechanics helps workers recognise why some positions and movements create greater strain than others.
For example, holding weight away from the body generally creates more leverage and places greater demand on the muscles supporting the spine. Twisting while reaching can combine awkward posture with force. Sudden movements may give the body little time to adapt.
During our Manual Handling Course, students learn practical principles such as:
- Maintaining a stable base of support
- Keeping the body balanced
- Positioning the feet to allow movement
- Keeping loads or working forces closer where possible
- Avoiding unnecessary twisting
- Moving the feet rather than rotating through the spine
- Adjusting the working height
- Using controlled weight transfer
- Coordinating movements with others
- Recognising personal limitations
- Avoiding prolonged or awkward postures
Students also examine the anatomy and function of the spine and how work design, posture, repetition and force can contribute to musculoskeletal injury.
This section is not about teaching one “perfect” lifting pose for every situation.
Real workplaces are too varied for that.
The safest technique depends on the task, environment, equipment, worker, client and available controls. A technique suitable for moving a small object may be completely inappropriate for transferring a person.
The aim is to help students understand the principles behind safer movement so they can make better decisions in different situations.
Manual Handling Is Not Just About Lifting
One of the most common misconceptions is that manual handling means lifting something heavy.
In reality, hazardous manual tasks can involve many different actions and exposures.
WorkSafe WA identifies characteristics such as repetitive force, sustained force, high force, sudden force, repetitive movement, sustained posture, awkward posture and vibration. A task does not need to involve a dramatic lift to create risk.
Consider a support worker who repeatedly reaches across a bed, a carer who spends long periods bent forward, or a worker who pushes a poorly maintained wheelchair.
None of those tasks may look like a traditional heavy lift. However, the combination of force, repetition, duration and posture can contribute to injury.
Our training therefore looks beyond isolated lifting movements.
Students learn to recognise how tasks are organised, how frequently they are performed, how long exposure continues and whether equipment, staffing or environmental changes could reduce the risk.
Risk Management: Stop, Assess and Control the Hazard
Good manual handling is built on risk management.
Students learn that the first question should not be, “How do I lift this?”
The first question should be, “Does this task need to be done this way?”
WorkSafe WA recommends a systematic process of identifying hazardous manual tasks, assessing the risks, implementing controls and reviewing those controls to ensure they remain effective. The WA Hazardous Manual Tasks Code of Practice applies to workplaces covered by the Work Health and Safety Act where these tasks are carried out.
During the course, students examine how to identify hazards associated with:
- The task being performed
- The client or load
- Tools and equipment
- The physical environment
- Workload and time pressure
- Staffing levels
- Worker capability and experience
- Repetition and duration
- Unexpected or sudden movement
They then consider available control measures.
The most effective approach may be to remove the need for the hazardous task altogether. When that is not reasonably practicable, the task may need to be redesigned, equipment introduced, the layout changed or staffing adjusted.
Training and safe procedures remain important, but they should not be the only controls used when a higher-level solution is available.
For example, teaching staff to tolerate a difficult manual transfer is not an adequate substitute for providing a suitable hoist when one is required.
Preparing the Environment Before Moving
Many manual handling incidents occur because a task begins before the area is ready.
Before assisting a client, workers may need to consider:
- Is there enough room to move?
- Is the floor dry and clear?
- Is the equipment available and suitable?
- Has the equipment been checked?
- Is the bed or chair at an appropriate height?
- Are footplates, furniture or cords creating obstacles?
- Is another staff member required?
- Has the client’s care plan been reviewed?
- Is the client ready and able to participate?
- Has the movement been explained?
This preparation can take less than a minute, but it may prevent a rushed, awkward or uncontrolled movement.
Students are encouraged to develop a habit of pausing before starting. That pause creates an opportunity to identify a problem while it can still be corrected.
Communication and Teamwork
Safe client movement is rarely just a physical skill.
Communication is equally important.
The client should understand, as far as possible, what is about to happen. Workers should explain the planned movement, encourage the client to participate within their abilities and check for discomfort or concern.
When two workers are involved, both should understand:
- The intended movement
- Their individual roles
- Who will lead the task
- The agreed timing or count
- What will happen if the client becomes unsteady
- When the task should be stopped
Poor communication can result in one worker moving before the other is ready. It may also cause the client to react unexpectedly because they do not understand what is happening.
During practical training, students learn that clear, calm communication supports both physical safety and client confidence.
Protecting Client Dignity and Choice
Manual handling in care environments is about more than preventing staff injuries.
The person being supported has the right to be treated with dignity, respect and consideration.
A transfer may involve close physical contact or occur during personal care. The client may feel vulnerable, embarrassed or anxious. Some clients may previously have experienced painful or frightening transfers.
Workers should therefore:
- Explain the task before beginning
- Seek consent and cooperation
- Protect privacy
- Use respectful language
- Encourage independence
- Avoid rushing
- Monitor comfort
- Follow the individual care plan
- Report changes in the client’s ability or condition
The goal is not to move a person as quickly as possible.
The goal is to provide safe, person-centred assistance that protects the worker while respecting the client.
Recognising When a Task Should Stop
An essential manual handling skill is knowing when not to continue.
Workers should not feel pressured to complete a task when the conditions have changed or the planned method is no longer safe.
The task may need to stop when:
- The client reports pain or distress
- The client’s mobility differs from the care plan
- Equipment is damaged or unavailable
- The environment is unsafe
- The worker is unsure of the technique
- The task exceeds the worker’s capability
- An additional staff member is required
- The correct sling or aid cannot be confirmed
- An unexpected movement occurs
Stopping is not a failure.
It is part of professional risk management.
Students learn the importance of seeking assistance, reporting hazards and following organisational escalation procedures rather than improvising a potentially unsafe solution.
Why Practical Manual Handling Training Matters
Online learning is excellent for building theoretical knowledge, but some skills need to be observed and practised.
During practical training, a trainer can identify issues that the student may not notice independently. These might include standing too far from the task, twisting, reaching, holding a sustained posture or failing to prepare enough space.
Small adjustments can make a major difference.
Practical training also gives students an opportunity to ask questions, become familiar with equipment and experience how manual handling principles apply in realistic situations.
This is particularly valuable for workers who are new to the care sector or returning after time away.
It can also help experienced workers identify habits that have developed gradually over time.
Who Should Complete Our Manual Handling Course?
Our HLTWHS005 Manual Handling Course in Perth is suitable for a broad range of workers and students, including:
- Disability support workers
- NDIS support workers
- Aged care employees
- Personal care assistants
- Nurses
- Nursing and care students
- Home care workers
- Community support workers
- Allied health assistants
- Residential care staff
- Workers required by their employer to hold HLTWHS005
There are no course prerequisites listed on the First Aid Certified course page, making the training accessible to people entering the industry as well as experienced workers refreshing their skills.
Three Convenient Perth Training Centres
Finding a course should not require travelling across the entire metropolitan area or waiting weeks for the next available session.
First Aid Certified offers Manual Handling training at three dedicated Perth training centres:
Subiaco
Our Subiaco location is convenient for students travelling from the Perth CBD, western suburbs and surrounding areas. It is close to Subiaco Train Station and public transport.
Innaloo
Our Innaloo training centre provides a convenient northern-suburbs option, with free parking and access from nearby major roads and public transport.
Joondalup
Our Joondalup centre supports students living and working throughout Perth’s northern corridor. It is conveniently located near Joondalup Train Station and the Lakeside Joondalup precinct.
With three training centres and frequent course times available each week, First Aid Certified offers one of Perth’s most flexible selections of public Manual Handling classes.
That means students can choose a location and time that works around employment, shift work, study and personal responsibilities.
What Happens After You Book?
After booking your Manual Handling Course in Perth, you will receive access to the online learning component.
The online theory should be completed before attending the practical session. It introduces important concepts including hazardous manual tasks, workplace responsibilities, risk factors, injury prevention, biomechanics and control measures.
You then attend your selected First Aid Certified training centre for the practical component.
During the class, you will participate in supervised activities, practise with manual handling equipment and demonstrate the required skills.
The trainer will guide you through the practical tasks and provide feedback where required.
Students must successfully complete all online and practical assessment requirements before the nationally recognised outcome can be issued.
Why Choose First Aid Certified?
There are several reasons students choose First Aid Certified for Manual Handling Training in Perth.
Only 90 Minutes in the Classroom
Once the required online theory has been completed, the practical class takes approximately one and a half hours. This reduces time away from work without removing the essential hands-on component.
Complete the Theory at Home
You can complete the online component from home at a suitable time rather than spending most of the day in a classroom.
Real Manual Handling Equipment
Students practise with equipment relevant to care settings, including hoists, slide sheets, wheelchairs, hospital beds and transfer aids.
Three Perth Training Centres
Choose from Subiaco, Innaloo or Joondalup.
Frequent Weekly Courses
Our regular timetable makes it easier to find a date that suits your employment, placement or compliance deadline.
Care-Specific Training
The course is designed for workers in aged care, disability support, nursing, NDIS services and other care environments.
Nationally Recognised Training
The course covers HLTWHS005 Conduct Manual Tasks Safely and is delivered through First Aid Certified in partnership with ABC First Aid, RTO 3399.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Manual Handling Course?
The course uses blended delivery. You complete the online theory before attending an approximately 90-minute practical session at one of our Perth training centres.
Is this course nationally recognised?
Yes. The unit completed is HLTWHS005 Conduct Manual Tasks Safely, which is a nationally recognised unit of competency.
What equipment will I use?
Practical training may include standing and full-body hoists, hydraulic or powered lifting equipment, slide sheets, wheelchairs, hospital beds, transfer belts and other manual handling aids.
Is the course suitable for NDIS support workers?
Yes. It is suitable for disability and NDIS support workers who are required to perform manual tasks or assist clients with movement, subject to their employer’s requirements and their individual scope of work.
Is this a general warehouse lifting course?
Our course is contextualised primarily for the care environment. It is particularly relevant for aged care, disability support, healthcare, home care and nursing roles.
Do I have to complete practical training?
Yes. HLTWHS005 involves practical skills that must be demonstrated. Completing theory alone does not replace the practical assessment requirements.
Can I complete the course entirely online?
Our standard course uses blended learning: online theory followed by a supervised face-to-face practical session.
Where are the classes held?
Manual Handling classes are available at First Aid Certified’s Subiaco, Innaloo and Joondalup training centres.
Does a Manual Handling certificate expire?
The nationally recognised Statement of Attainment does not have one universal statutory expiry date. However, many employers require refresher training annually or at another interval determined by workplace policy, risk and industry requirements. Students should confirm the required renewal period with their employer.
Do you offer training for workplaces?
Yes. Workplace and corporate training can also be arranged for organisations that need to train multiple staff members.
Build Safer Skills for Your Care Career
Manual handling is not simply about being strong enough to lift.
It is about recognising hazards, understanding the body, planning the task, using equipment correctly and knowing when conditions are unsafe.
It is also about protecting the person being supported.
A well-planned transfer can preserve dignity, encourage independence and reduce anxiety. A poorly planned transfer can place the worker and client at risk within seconds.
First Aid Certified’s Manual Handling Course in Perth gives students practical experience with the equipment and situations they are likely to encounter in aged care, disability support, nursing and community care.
With online theory, an approximately 90-minute practical class, three convenient training centres and frequent weekly sessions, completing your training is straightforward and flexible.
Whether you are beginning a new care role, preparing for placement, meeting an employer requirement or refreshing your existing skills, HLTWHS005 can help you approach manual tasks with greater awareness and confidence.
Book your Manual Handling Course in Perth with First Aid Certified and learn how to conduct manual tasks safely using practical techniques, realistic equipment and effective risk management.
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