Expertise and Experience

With years of experience delivering Patient Handling training, SafeHands has established a reputation for excellence in healthcare training.

Our approach combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring participants gain both understanding and hands-on skills.

Tailored to Your Needs

We recognise that different healthcare settings have unique challenges. Our training can be customised to address:

• Specific patient populations (elderly, rehabilitation, acute care, etc.)
• Available equipment within your facility
• Environmental constraints and considerations
• Organisational policies and procedures
• Particular handling challenges identified by your team

Practical and Engaging

Our training methodology focuses on practical application and participant engagement:

• High ratio of hands-on practice time
• Realistic scenarios relevant to your workplace
• Collaborative problem-solving activities
• Visual demonstrations of correct techniques
• Supportive feedback during skills development

Compliance Focused

Our training ensures your organisation meets all regulatory requirements:

• Fully compliant with health and safety legislation
• Aligned with HSA guidelines for healthcare
• Meets HIQA standards for care settings
• Supports CQA quality improvement
• Documented evidence of staff competence

Real-World Benefits of Our Patient Handling Training

Patient handling training is not merely a regulatory requirement - it's an investment that delivers concrete returns for everyone involved in the care process. Effective training creates a positive ripple effect throughout healthcare organisations, improving safety metrics, staff wellbeing, patient experience, and operational efficiency.

At SafeHands, we design our training programmes with these practical outcomes in mind, focusing on creating measurable improvements that extend well beyond the training room and into daily practice.

For Healthcare Workers

• Reduced Injury Risk: Proven techniques to minimise musculoskeletal strain
• Increased Confidence: Clear guidelines for approaching different handling scenarios
• Enhanced Skills: Practical abilities that transfer to real-world patient care
• Career Protection: Reduced likelihood of career-limiting injuries
• Work Satisfaction: Less physical strain and more effective patient care

For Patients

• Improved Safety: Reduced risk of falls and handling-related injuries
• Enhanced Comfort: Smoother, more coordinated movements
• Preserved Dignity: Respectful approaches to necessary handling procedures
• Appropriate Independence: Encouragement of self-help where possible
• Positive Experience: Reduced anxiety during necessary handling

For Healthcare Organisations

• Legal Compliance: Meeting statutory obligations for staff training
• Reduced Costs: Fewer work-related injuries leading to less absenteeism
• Improved Care Quality: Better handling practices enhancing the overall patient experience
• Staff Retention: Protected wellbeing leading to better staff satisfaction
• Risk Management: Documented training reducing liability concerns

Frequently Asked Questions About Patient Handling Training

How often should patient handling training be refreshed?

Certification for patient handling training is typically valid for 3 years. However, we recommend regular practice sessions and updates, particularly when new equipment is introduced or when staff encounter new handling challenges. Many healthcare facilities implement annual competency checks in addition to formal recertification.

Can the training be adapted for our specific healthcare setting?

Absolutely. We tailor our training to address the specific challenges of different healthcare environments. Whether you're in acute hospital care, community nursing, residential care, or rehabilitation, our trainers will adapt content to focus on relevant techniques and scenarios. We can also incorporate your specific equipment and patient profiles into the training.

Does the training cover both manual techniques and equipment use?

Yes, our comprehensive training covers both manual handling techniques and the safe use of handling equipment. Participants learn when manual approaches are appropriate and when equipment should be used, as well as correct techniques for both approaches. We cover a wide range of equipment, including sliding sheets, transfer boards, handling belts, and various types of hoists and slings.

How many staff can attend each training session?

To ensure adequate hands-on practice and individual attention, we limit group sizes to a maximum of 12 participants per session. This allows our trainers to observe and provide feedback on technique, ensuring all participants achieve competence.

Do you provide training materials for participants?

Yes, all participants receive comprehensive training materials, including technique guides, assessment tools, and quick reference materials. These resources support the ongoing implementation of safe handling practices after the training is completed.

Can family carers attend your patient handling courses?

We offer specialised courses for family carers who are supporting loved ones at home. These courses focus on the specific challenges of the home environment and use practical, accessible techniques suitable for non-professional carers. Please contact us to discuss these specific requirements.