Watch Your Back How to Life Safely

Watch Your Back!

How to Lift Safely

Lifting heavy boxes or objects is often part of the job. But, don’t risk an injury to your back, which can result in a long and painful recovery. Here are some tips for “watching your back.”

1. Sure, you want to get the job done, but assess the situation first. When possible, use a forklift or hand truck to assist you in safely moving something heavy. Remember to push, not pull.

Don’t hesitate to ask another person for help if something seems too heavy or awkward to carry by yourself. 2. If you must lift something on your own, make sure you are on a stable surface. Never stand on a desk or chair to reach something heavy.

As a rule, don’t lift an object that is above your shoulders. Stand close to the base of the object, and position your body squarely in front of it. Make sure you have good balance. 3. You’ve heard it said before: “Lift with your legs, not your back.” Bend at the knees to a squatting position, and get your body as close to the box or object as you can. While squatting, keep your back straight and your head up. 4. While squatting, push into a standing position slowly. Make sure your legs are supporting your weight. Keep your back straight and your head up. Use your abdominal muscles to help with the lift. 5. Slowly lift the object until you feel comfortable carrying it. Keep your body straight; don’t twist while you lift. If you need to turn your body while lifting, shift your feet to keep your position square. 6. When it’s time to put the load down, bend your knees again. Keep your back straight and your head up. As you lower the load to the floor, spread your knees or lower one knee to the floor for support and balance. Try to keep the load as close to your body as you can, using your leg and arm muscles to lower it —not your back! 7. Once you put the load down, the process isn’t quite over. Stand up slowly, and keep your head and back straight. Stretch out your back muscles when you are finished.

(Source: OSHA)