Back safety Proper lifting techniques Prevent back injuries
Back safety Proper lifting techniques
Prevent back injuries Think defensively about your back n Use common sense n Follow good lifting techniques n
Size up the load Test the loads weight by lifting one of the corners n Make sure you can handle the weight n Long objects may need to be carried by two people n
If the load is too heavy Ask a fellow worker for help n Use a dolly or other mechanical lifting device n Split the load into smaller ones n
Lifting techniques Lift with your legs not your back n Place your feet close to the object n Center your self over the load n
Lifting techniques Bend your knees n Get a good hand hold n Lift straight up smoothly n
Don’t twist or turn Keep the load close to your body n Keep it steady, sudden twisting or turning could result in injury n Turn your body by changing foot positions, not twisting n
Know your path Is your path clear? n Are there any holes? n Are there any spilled liquids? n Check your footing. n
Set it down safely Setting the load down is just as critical to back safety as lifting it n Lower the load slowly by bending your knees n
Set it down safely Let your legs do most of the work n Don’t let go of the load until it is secure on the floor n
Push, don’t pull If the object is on rollers, push n Pushing puts less strain on your back n Pushing is safer should the load tip over n
Plan ahead Place objects that will need to be moved later on racks rather than the ground n Know where you need to go before you start n
Additional factors Straighten up! Poor posture can put stress on back muscles. n Get in shape! Poor physical condition leads to weak back muscles. n Relax! Stress and tension contribute to back pain. n
- Slides: 13