Lifting Techniques

Basic rules of good lifting Size up the load before you lift Bend your knees Center yourself over the load Get a good hand hold Lift straight up – let your legs do the work Don’t twist or turn 1a

Basic rules of good lifting Have a clear path Ensure a place where load can be set down Set the load down properly Always push a cart or dolly Get help for long loads Split up heavy loads when you can Check for stability of load Make sure you have a good grip on the load 1c

If back pain occurs You may have a serious problem if: resting a few days doesn’t help you have a feeling of numbness in your lower limbs If the pain doesn’t go away: Seek medical attention 2a

If back pain occurs For on-the-job relief: get up and stretch if you sit for long periods shift your feet if you stand avoid leaning to one side if you stand 2b

Injuries that occur to backs Strains and sprains Ruptured or slipped disks Chronic tension and stress Other forms of back pain Some injuries require surgery Some injuries lead to permanent disability Back injuries can limit activities on and off the job 3a

Correct lifting posture Bend knees Center body over the load Lift straight up Never twist or turn when lifting Adds strain to back’s disks, muscles, ligaments, tendons Plan your lift to avoid awkward positions Set load down if you’re losing your grip 4a

Never twist or turn when lifting Don’t twist and turn or juggle load to regain grip Keep back as straight as possible Follow lifting weight restrictions Test the weight by carefully pushing load, or lifting one corner 5b

Carrying the load Get help if load is too heavy - lift at the same time to keep load balanced Use mechanical equipment if load is too heavy 6c

Lowering the load Bend the knees Slowly lower it; do not drop the load Avoid sudden movements Bend knees to let leg muscles support the weight Lower the load at the same time if working with a partner 7b

Pushing versus pulling a load Pushing a load is easier on the back Pushing a load is easier to control 8a

Plan ahead Avoid using lower rack for moderately heavy to heavy items, or awkward items Get help when lifting heavy, awkward, or long items Size up the load: split it into multiple loads if possible smaller loads cause less strain on the back 9a

Plan ahead Use material handling equipment if load is too heavy forklifts hoists dollies 9c

Other factors in back injuries Age of employee Improper postures when sleeping, standing, sitting Physical condition of employee Repetitive motions 10a