Employees can injure themselves while lifting in many ways, such as lifting heavy objects alone, using bad form, reaching awkwardly or lifting repeatedly throughout the day. Improper lifting can lead to serious injuries like muscle strains, sprains and even disc problems in your back. These injuries can cause pain, lost wages and even long-term health problems. By following safe lifting practices, you can help protect yourself from painful injuries that could affect both your work and home life.
Preparation before lifting
Lifting safely starts before you even touch the object. Taking a few moments to prepare can prevent injury and make the job easier.
- Check the object for weight and shape and ask for help with heavy or oddly-sized objects.
- For team lifts, designate a leader in advance and plan the details of the lift.
- Map out a clear path to your destination that is free of obstacles.
- Wear sturdy shoes with good traction to prevent slips and falls.
Proper lifting techniques
Now that you’ve sized up the object and planned your lift, it’s time to focus on proper form to avoid injury. The key to safe lifting is maintaining your back’s natural posture during the lift and relying on the strength of your legs.
- Squat close to the object you’re lifting and grip it securely with both hands, using work gloves if necessary.
- Keep your back straight and core engaged as you lift with your legs and hold the load close to your body throughout the lift.
- While carrying the load, pivot your feet to change direction, but don’t twist your torso.
- For team lifts, lift and lower in unison, communicate throughout the move and avoid any sudden movements.
Lowering with care
Safe lifting doesn’t end when you’ve picked up an object. Lowering an object requires the same care and attention as lifting it.
- Get into position before lowering the object.
- Lower slowly and smoothly, keeping the load close to your body.
- Bend at your knees, keeping your back straight and core engaged.
- Set the object down gently on a stable surface.
A few moments of preparation and proper lifting and lowering techniques can save you from a lifetime of back pain.
