MECHANICAL MATERIAL HANDLING TRAINING GUIDE
2
330-CBZ-01-IGDO © 2025, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS)
1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | WSPS.CA
2) Determine Who Needs Training
Training should be provided to:
– Operators: Those who will be operating equipment and following procedures.
– Pedestrians: When mechanical material handling equipment is being used, nearby personnel
traveling through the facility near equipment should know how they might be affected.
– Supervisors: Supervisors who enforce procedures and assess skills need more than theory -
they must understand how things work in practice to help keep the workplace safe.
3) Understand Learner Needs
Assess learners' prior experience and potential challenges. Accommodate accordingly, and
consider recommending a foundational awareness course— like WSPS' Safe Lifting & Manual
Materials Handling Course, — before the main training.
4) Know Your Equipment
Identify which equipment will be used during training, their associated hazards, and when they'll be
available. Avoid using equipment scheduled for production to prevent confusion or accidents during
practical exercises.
5) Gather Necessary Tools and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Ensure all tools and PPE are available. If PPE is required, order it in advance so it's ready for
training.
6) Prepare a Variety of Training Tools
People have different learning styles—visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and reading/writing—which
influence how they best absorb information. To effectively engage all participants, it's important
to use a variety of training tools that cater to each style.
7) Prepare Printed Materials
While digital documents are useful, printed copies of procedures allow learners to follow along,
highlight key points, and take notes. Bring extra paper and pens for convenience.
8) Create a Training Agenda
Draft a clear agenda to cover all essential mechanical material handling topics, such as identifying
hazards, pedestrian safety, food contamination and load management. Be ready to address learner
questions thoughtfully and timely.
9) Set Up a Sign-In Sheet
Track attendance with a detailed sign-in sheet that includes training dates, topics, and the machinery
used for practical exercises.
WSPS.CA
