Safe Lifting

More than one million occur every year. They are responsible for 25 percent of all workers’ compensation claims. The are the leading cause of disability for workers under 45 years of age. They are the second most common workplace injury. Back Injuries 2

Common Injuries External cuts, bruises, crush injuries, and lacerations. Internal hernias, prolapsed discs, damage to joints, and muscle/ligament tears.

Lever effect can magnify weight by a factor of up to 10. (20 lbs.) (200 lbs.) Maximum Safe Lifting Weight = 51 lbs. National Safety Council 10 lbs. 100 lbs. Safe Lifting

…means using your head! STAND close to the load. Bend your knees, not your back! Let your legs do the lifting. Get help with heavy or awkward loads! Use the correct tools! Use your head; save your back. Safe Lifting…

Hold the load close, so you can see over it. Keep the load balanced. Avoid twisting your body. Watch out for pinch points, such as doorways. Face the direction you will be traveling. Carrying a Load

For those Awkward Moments If you must lift or lower from a high place: Stand on a platform instead of a ladder. Lift the load in smaller pieces if possible. Push the load to see how heavy and stable it is. Slide the load as close to yourself as possible before lifting up or down. Get help when needed to avoid an injury.

Lifting from hard-to-get-at places Get as close to the load as possible. Keep back straight, and stomach muscles tight. Push buttocks out behind you. Bend your knees. Use leg, stomach, and buttock muscles to lift, not your back.

Remember: LIFT SAFE S tomach muscles should be tight. A lways lift with your legs and not your back. F ocus on keeping the load close to your body; the closer it is to your spine, the less strain. E ven when putting down the load, keep your back straight and upright. L oad should be tested to see how heavy it is before picking up. I f load is too heavy or awkward, ask for help. F eet should be spread wide and toes pointed out. T ake a moment to bend at the knees and hips; never bend at the waist.

Prevention Exercise, and maintain good back posture. Use available lifting equipment. Use your legs, and bend at the knees. Do not twist and lift. Remember to: Think and plan before you lift. Protect your back every time. 11