Tips To Lift And Carry Safely
Lifting and carrying loads without proper planning or technique can lead to unnecessary injuries, especially of the back. Review the tips below to help prevent unnecessary strains and injuries.
To Pick Up A Load
- Have a plan
- Ensure that there is a clear and safe path for carrying the load
- Stand close to the load
- Bend your knees – maintain your back’s natural curve
- Grip the load firmly
- Push your body up slowly and smoothly with your legs
- Don’t twist your body
- Remember to use your legs, not your back!
To Put Down A Load
- Don’t twist your body
- Bend your knees to lower the load
- Place the load on the edge of a surface, then slide it back
- Remember to use your legs, not your back
If a load is too heavy or awkward to manage alone, ask for help.
To Use A Two-Person Lift
- Plan ahead, ensure that each person is on the same page
- Lifters should be about the same height, if possible
- Put one person in charge of saying when and where to move
- Keep the load level
- Unload at the same time
- Remember to use your legs, not your back
If a load is too heavy or awkward for a two-person lift, there may be need for additional equipment or persons to safely lift and move the load.