Safe Lifting

Preparing for Safe Lifting:>Preparing for Safe Lifting:
Safe Lifting begins with proper planning to avoid placing yourself in a situation where your back is at risk of injury.  A few things to consider when approaching a lifting job are given below.
  • Be familiar with the load. Be sure that you know the weight of what you are trying to lift and how the weight is distributed.  Asses the dimensions of the object, its grasp points, and how it should be carried.  If you are lifting a package, know what is inside as the contents may shift during lifting or could protrude through the side of the package.
  • Be sure you have a clear path of travel and destination point. Sudden or awkward movements when lifting or carrying an object can result in injury.  Before picking up an object, look at the path of travel to make sure no obstacles exist, such as trip/slip hazards or closed doors.   Also be sure that the destination point is clear so that you don't have to place yourself in an awkward position when trying to move something out of the way in order to put the object down.
  • Consider reducing the size/weight of the object. Break heavy loads down into smaller portions that are less strenuous on your back.
  • Consider obtaining mechanical or human assistance. If the weight of an object is in the upper range of your lifting ability, consider getting assistance from a co-worker rather than placing yourself in a position where you may get hurt.  Give thought to using a mechanical device, such as a dolly, cart, or other piece of equipment rather than placing the strain on your body.

Proper Lifting Technique

  1. Prepare for safe lifting.
  2. Stand with feet shoulder width apart.
  3. Bend with the knees, keeping the natural curves of your back in alignment.
  4. Grip the object, pulling it in close to your body.
  5. Tighten your stomach muscles.
  6. Keeping your back in alignment, lift with the legs in a slow, smooth motion while exhaling.
  7. While carrying a load, keep it close to your body, and do not twist or bend at the waist.
  8. Put the object down the same way in which you picked it up.
  9. Rest in between lifting tasks.

Generally, proper lifting technique is designed to avoid motions or postures that place your back in a position where it is susceptible to injury.  The primary motions to avoid are bending, twisting, and sudden movements which will decrease your chance of injury by up to 250%.