The objective of the RSPH Level 2 Award in Principles of Manual Handling qualification is to provide candidates with a fundamental knowledge and understanding of manual handling in the workplace. The qualification covers general workplace hazards and controls associated with manual handling of general articles such as furniture, boxes, sacks and work equipment. It does not include people moving skills although it provides a solid foundation of the principles for additional specialist training.

The qualification covers topics such as typical injuries and health problems from incorrect manual handling plus the hazards and risks of a variety of workplace scenarios. The legal framework for introducing manual handling controls and the duties under the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 of both the employer and the employee are included so that candidates understand how they can contribute to a manual handling programme in the workplace.