GMP Training Program Module 19 Lifting Heavy Objects

GMP Training Program Module 19 Lifting Heavy Objects and Ladder/Stairway Safety

Lifting Heavy Objects 05/2014

Body Mechanics Topics ® Steps to Lifting and Carrying Safety ® Lifting Alternatives ® Avoiding unsafe lifting ® Major sources of injury ® Exercise reduces injury 05/2014

Preparation to Lift a Load Prior to lifting an object, it is important to plan your lift and the path you are going to take. ® Choose the straightest, flattest and clearest path to your destination. ® Clear the path of all movable objects. ® Check the path for rough or slippery surfaces. ® Check the stability and weight of the object to make sure you can lift it. If it is clumsy, or too heavy, get help! 05/2014

Steps to Lifting Safety Lifting the load is what causes most of the back injuries in the workplace. Follow these steps: ® ® ® ® Stand close to the load Balance yourself with both feet on the floor, shoulder-width apart. Squat down, bending your knees Keep your back straight and head up. Grip the object firmly with both hands Tuck your arms and elbows close to your sides Use your legs to bring you to a standing position Lift smoothly and under control. DO NOT JERK. 05/2014

Carrying the Load ® Once you have lifted the load, it is important to carry it properly. ® Hold the load as close to your body as possible. ® When lowering the load, bend your knees – not your waist. ® Move smoothly and under control ® Shift your feet when moving a load – DO NOT twist at the waist. 05/2014

Lifting Alternatives ® Prior to lifting an object, consider how you can eliminate the lift or do as little lifting as possible. For Example: ® Ask a co-worker for help ® Use equipment such as: A dolly ® Hand truck ® Hoist ® Powered pushcart ® 05/2014

Pushing the Load ® Pushing a load is easier on your back than pulling. When pushing a load, keep these things in mind: ® Stay close to the load ® Walk upright – do not lean forward ® Use both arms ® Allow for the conditions of the walking surface 05/2014

Pulling the Load ® If you have no other alternative than to pull a load, keep these things in mind: ® Face the object ® Keep your back straight ® Bend your knees slightly ® Pull with one smooth motion – don’t jerk 05/2014

Avoiding Unsafe Lifting ® Lifting activities that may put your back at risk of injury: ® Reaching over an obstacle to lift a load puts extra strain on your lower back ® Lifting objects over your head puts extra strain on your lower back and neck. If you must lift over your head keep the load light or ask for help. ® Twisting when lifting an object puts extra strain on your lower back and increases your risk of pulling a muscle 05/2014

Back Stretching Activities ® Place the palms across the small of your back, bend arch your spine. ® Repeat 5 to 10 times. Use a slow, deliberate motion. 05/2014

Back exercise reduces injury! ®A strong back is important to keeping your back healthy and injury free. Exercising regularly to keep in good physical condition. ® Abdominal Crunches is one of the best exercises to support lifting activities and reduce the risk of injury. 05/2014

Ladder Safety 05/2014

Ladder Safety Rules ® Working with ladders can be hazardous. For the safety of all GMP staff, it is important to follow OSHA’s Ladder Guidelines and Safety Rules. 05/2014

OSHA Ladder Safety Rules: ® Ladders MUST BE SECURED when they are not in use. (JCAHO) ® Do not leave ladders leaning against a shelf, especially if it is blocking or interferes with foot traffic. ® If you must leave the ladder for a few minutes, use a barricade to keep traffic away from the ladder. 05/2014

Ladder Safety Rules, cont. ® Maintain ladders free of oil, grease and other slipping hazards. ® Do not use ladders on slippery surfaces. Only use on stable and level surfaces. ® Do not move, shift or extend ladders while in use. ® Use at least one hand to grasp the ladder when climbing. 05/2014

Ladder Safety Rules, cont. ® Face the ladder when moving up or down. ® Do not load ladders beyond their maximum intended load limit. ® Do not carry objects or loads that could cause loss of balance and falling. 05/2014

Stairway Safety 05/2014

Stairway Safety Rules ® Stairways must be kept clear of obstacles to permit free passage. ® Always use handrail. ® Do not carry large loads or boxes that obscure your view. 05/2014

Be Safe and Not Sorry! Protect your health and safety by following these simple safety rules. 05/2014

Where to Get More Information ® GMP Resource Library ® OSHA Standard 312412 R, 2003 ® OSHA Web Site ® www. osha. gov ®This 05/2014 presentation is based on information found in OSHA training materials.