Statutory & mandatory training: Definitions, differences & guidance
![What is the difference between statutory & mandatory training? - Dr Richard Dune - What is the difference between statutory & mandatory training? - Dr Richard Dune -](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0937/2788/t/33/assets/whatisthedifferencebetweenstatutoryandmandatorytraining1642410544948-1671519058049.jpg?v=1671519086)
Here at The Mandatory Training Group, we receive many enquiries from people across the UK asking about mandatory and statutory training. Many find these two terms quite confusing and often ask:
“Is there really a difference between statutory and mandatory training?”
What is the difference between statutory and mandatory training?
![Is there a difference between mandatory and statutory training? - Dr Richard Dune - Is there a difference between mandatory and statutory training? - Dr Richard Dune -](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0937/2788/t/33/assets/pexelsekaterinabolovtsova6077326-1671779620993.jpg?v=1671779630)
Admittedly, the words ‘mandatory’ and ‘statutory’ have similarities but also significant differences, especially regarding compliance training, such as health and safety at work training.
We looked at various dictionaries to see how they define "statutory" and "mandatory". We also reviewed several compliance-related websites and found that ‘mandatory’ and ‘statutory’ are used interchangeably as if they mean the same thing. What was clear was that statutory training is mandatory, while mandatory training is not necessarily statutory.
Before we further explain these similarities and differences, let’s start by looking at the dictionary definitions of ‘statutory’ and ‘mandatory’.
How are ‘statutory’ and ‘mandatory’ defined in the dictionaries?
![How do you differentiate mandatory training and statutory training? - Dr Richard Dune - How do you differentiate mandatory training and statutory training? - Dr Richard Dune -](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0937/2788/t/33/assets/whatisthedifferencebetweenstatutoryandmandatorytrainingelearningcoursesthemandatorytraininggroupuk1642414264900-1671519057872.jpg?v=1671519171)
The Collins Dictionary defines the words ‘statutory’ and ‘mandatory’ as follows:
"Statutory relates to rules or laws which have been formally written down"
"Mandatory relates to actions or procedures that people have to do because it is a rule or a law"
The Oxford Dictionary defines ‘statutory’ and ‘mandatory’ as follows:
"Statutory - required, permitted, or enacted by statute"
"Mandatory - required by law or mandate; compulsory"
After reviewing these definitions, we felt that they did not clearly distinguish between "statutory" and "mandatory". Hence, the confusion regarding statutory and mandatory training.
What is statutory and mandatory training?
![Mandatory and statutory training courses provider in the UK - Dr Richard Dune - Mandatory and statutory training courses provider in the UK - Dr Richard Dune -](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0937/2788/t/33/assets/whatisthedifferencebetweenstatutoryandmandatorytrainingthemandatorytraininggroupuk1642417021129-1671519057451.jpg?v=1671519098)
This section will provide more concise definitions of ‘statutory training’ and ‘mandatory training’. We will also give statutory and mandatory training examples, which will help us distinguish between these types.
What is statutory training?
![Mandatory and statutory training courses - CPD Certified - Dr Richard Dune - Mandatory and statutory training courses - CPD Certified - Dr Richard Dune -](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0937/2788/t/33/assets/whatisthedifferencebetweenstatutoryandmandatorytrainingelearningcoursesthemandatorytraininggroupuk21642418348961-1671519057776.jpg?v=1671519152)
Statutory training is where a statutory body has mandated that organisations provide that training based on specific legislation. The most common sources of statutory training are the Health and Safety at Work Act etc. 1974, and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.
The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 is an Act of the Parliament of the United Kingdom that, as of 2011, defines the fundamental structure and authority for the encouragement, regulation and enforcement of workplace health, safety and welfare within the United Kingdom.
Adherence to the Act is essential for employers and employees to maintain a safe and healthy working environment.
What are the examples of statutory training?
![Mandatory and statutory online courses - CPD Accredited - Dr Richard Dune - Mandatory and statutory online courses - CPD Accredited - Dr Richard Dune -](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0937/2788/t/33/assets/whatisthedifferencebetweenstatutoryandmandatorytrainingelearningthemandatirytraininggroupuk1642421792343-1671519057973.jpg?v=1671519194)
The most common statutory training courses are:
- Awareness of the local health and safety policy
- Awareness of the Control Of Substances Hazardous To Health (COSHH)
- When and how to report injuries, diseases and dangerous occurrences (RIDDOR)
- Fire safety awareness training
- Manual handling training
- Basic risk assessment training.
Please note that statutory training requirements will differ between different sectors.
What is mandatory training?
![Mandatory and statutory e-learning courses - CPDUK Accredited - Dr Richard Dune - Mandatory and statutory e-learning courses - CPDUK Accredited - Dr Richard Dune -](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0937/2788/t/33/assets/whatisthedifferencebetweenstatutoryandmandatorytrainingonlinetrainingthemandatirytraininggroupuk1642423574875-1671519057476.jpg?v=1671519109)
Mandatory training is compulsory training that an organisation determines as essential for its safe and efficient delivery of services.
Mandatory training helps to reduce organisational risks and comply with legislation, regulations and guidance. Mandatory training also helps employees to complete their jobs safely and efficiently.
What are examples of mandatory training?
![Mandatory and statutory online training - CPDUK Certified - Dr Richard Dune - Mandatory and statutory online training - CPDUK Certified - Dr Richard Dune -](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0937/2788/t/33/assets/whatisthedifferencebetweenstatutoryandmandatorytrainingelearningcoursesthemandatorytraininggroupuk31642664346334-1671519057677.jpg?v=1671519137)
Common examples of mandatory training include:
- Child protection
- Complaints handling
- Conflict resolution
- Managing violence and aggression
- Display and screen equipment
- Equality, diversity and inclusion
- Infection prevention and control
- First aid.
It is essential to note that mandatory training courses will differ between organisations, even within the same sector. Mandatory training requirements depend on local risk assessments.
Is there a difference between mandatory and statutory training?
![Statutory and mandatory training - Online CPD Courses - Dr Richard Dune - Statutory and mandatory training - Online CPD Courses - Dr Richard Dune -](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0937/2788/t/33/assets/whatisthedifferencebetweenstatutoryandmandatorytrainingonlinethemandatorytraininggroupuk1642477820835-1671519057599.jpg?v=1671519127)
Yes, there is a difference between mandatory and statutory training.
"Statutory training is required to ensure that the organisation meets its legislative duties. Mandatory training is an organisational requirement to limit risk and maintain safe working practices"
As we have seen, many describe both statutory and mandatory training as ‘essential’ or ‘compulsory’ training as a ‘catch all’ phrase to cover both mandatory and statutory training.
Regardless of which term is used, statutory and mandatory training ensures that all staff members have the knowledge to maintain a healthy and safe working environment for themselves and their colleagues.
Conclusion - The differences between mandatory and statutory training
![Conclusion - The differences between mandatory and statutory training - Dr Richard Dune - Conclusion - The differences between mandatory and statutory training - Dr Richard Dune -](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0937/2788/t/33/assets/whatisthedifferencebetweenstatutoryandmandatorytrainingthemandatorytraininggroupuk21642478209508-1671519057387.jpg?v=1671519072)
We have now established the differences between statutory and mandatory training. Understandably, many people struggle to distinguish between these two types of training. The compulsory nature of statutory and mandatory training add to the confusion, hence, the interchangeable usage of these terms.
Statutory training is required by law, and mandatory training is determined by the organisation based on local risk assessments and training needs analysis.
Whether we categorise training as statutory or mandatory, all staff members must complete appropriate training to comply with the law and ensure that they remain safe in the workplace and minimise risks for everyone. Statutory and mandatory training is everyone’s responsibility.
Where can I find statutory and mandatory training courses?
The Mandatory Training Group is one of the largest providers of accredited statutory and mandatory training for all sectors in the UK. Click here to browse our statutory and mandatory training bundles completed on our interactive online training portal.
Alternatively, you can contact our helpful Support Team by clicking here to tell us about your statutory and mandatory training requirements for your organisation.
Related blog articles
![What is the difference between statutory & mandatory training? - Related blog articles - What is the difference between statutory & mandatory training? - Related blog articles -](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0937/2788/files/Related_blog_articles_1.jpg?v=1704458404)
Click on the links below to read more articles from our team:
![What is the difference between statutory & mandatory training? - Related blog articles - What is the difference between statutory & mandatory training? - Related blog articles -](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0937/2788/files/Related_blog_articles_1.jpg?v=1704458404)
Related blog articles
Click on the links below to read more articles from our team:
![What is the difference between statutory and mandatory training? - About The Mandatory Training Group UK - What is the difference between statutory and mandatory training? - About The Mandatory Training Group UK -](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0937/2788/t/33/assets/img20221214153316-1671712230191.jpg?v=1671712234)
About the Mandatory Training Group
The Mandatory Training Group is one of the leading UK providers of CPDUK-accredited statutory and mandatory training, continuing professional development (CPD) courses, eLearning software and workforce development solutions for all sectors.
By making things simple and designing interactive e-learning content, we can provide meaningful training programs at all levels and enhance the capacity and resilience of individuals and organisations.
Click here to see our wide range of accredited statutory and mandatory online courses and training programmes for various organisations.
About the Mandatory Training Group
![What is the difference between statutory & mandatory training? - About The Mandatory Training Group UK - What is the difference between statutory & mandatory training? - About The Mandatory Training Group UK -](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0937/2788/t/33/assets/img20221214153316-1671712230191.jpg?v=1671712234)
The Mandatory Training Group is one of the leading UK providers of CPDUK-accredited statutory and mandatory training, continuing professional development (CPD) courses, eLearning software and workforce development solutions for all sectors.
By making things simple and designing interactive e-learning content, we can provide meaningful training programs at all levels and enhance the capacity and resilience of individuals and organisations.
Click here to see our wide range of accredited statutory and mandatory online courses and training programmes for various organisations.
About Dr Richard Dune
Dr Richard Dune is a leading health and social care governance expert. Throughout his career, he has worked in various settings across the UK, including NHS Trusts, research and development, academic institutions, and private companies.
His work primarily focuses on developing, deploying and evaluating technologies, such as clinical decision support systems, educational technologies, workforce development and regulatory compliance solutions.
Dr Dune regularly writes about topical issues affecting the UK's health and social care sectors. Additionally, he speaks at conferences, stakeholder workshops, and professional forums. Dr Dune is also a research fellow at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire in the Research, Development and Innovation department. His other passions include content development, education, and coaching. Click here to read more articles by Dr Dune.
![CEO of The Mandatory Training Group UK - Dr Richard Dune - CEO of The Mandatory Training Group UK - Dr Richard Dune -](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0937/2788/files/About_Dr_Richard_Dune.webp?v=1703850885)
About Dr Richard Dune
Dr Richard Dune is a leading health and social care governance expert. Throughout his career, he has worked in various settings across the UK, including NHS Trusts, research and development, academic institutions, and private companies.
His work primarily focuses on developing, deploying and evaluating technologies, such as clinical decision support systems, educational technologies, workforce development and regulatory compliance solutions.
Dr Dune regularly writes about topical issues affecting the UK's health and social care sectors. Additionally, he speaks at conferences, stakeholder workshops, and professional forums. Dr Dune is also a research fellow at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire in the Research, Development and Innovation department. His other passions include content development, education, and coaching. Click here to read more articles by Dr Dune.
![CEO of the Mandatory Training Group UK - Dr Richard Dune - CEO of the Mandatory Training Group UK - Dr Richard Dune -](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0937/2788/files/About_Dr_Richard_Dune.webp?v=1703850885)
Contact us
Find out how we can help your organisation with statutory and mandatory training, continuous professional development, learning management systems, and educational technologies.