Statutory & mandatory training: Definitions, differences & guidance

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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 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?

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?

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

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.

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Find out how we can help your organisation with statutory and mandatory training, continuous professional development, learning management systems, and educational technologies.

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