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1 Safe Lifting Practices Jan2013

Back, neck, and shoulder injuries are common in construction work. More than half of back injuries occur due to improper lifting techniques. This document provides tips for safe lifting and carrying to prevent back injuries. It advises getting close to the load and using proper posture by keeping the back straight and lifting with the legs. When lifting, one should avoid twisting and support the load with the palms and fingers. Lowering should also be done slowly and carefully using the legs.

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renee
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100 views

1 Safe Lifting Practices Jan2013

Back, neck, and shoulder injuries are common in construction work. More than half of back injuries occur due to improper lifting techniques. This document provides tips for safe lifting and carrying to prevent back injuries. It advises getting close to the load and using proper posture by keeping the back straight and lifting with the legs. When lifting, one should avoid twisting and support the load with the palms and fingers. Lowering should also be done slowly and carefully using the legs.

Uploaded by

renee
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Tool Box Talk

JANUARY 2013

B
ack, neck and shoulder injuries are Safe Lifting & Carrying Tips to Help Prevent Back Injuries
some of the most commonly occurring
injuries in the construction industry. Before Lifting:
More than half of these back related injuries are  Size up the load and get help if needed - Do not attempt to lift the
caused by bodily reaction and exertion which load if it appears to be too heavy or awkward.
includes improper lifting. As construction  Use a dolly, forklift or other material handling equipment whenever
involves a great deal of manual lifting, it is possible.
important to know to steps and techniques
 For a two-person lift, both people should be roughly the same
involved in proper lifting to reduce your chances
height and agree upon who will take charge, the type of lift and
of an injury. Always stop and think before
how they will lower the load.
bending to pick up an object, and over time,
safe lifting techniques should become a habit.  Make sure the weight of the load is balanced and packed so it will
not move around during transportation.
 Ensure there is plenty of room to move, your path is clear of any
hazards, and avoid walking on slippery, uneven surfaces - Good
housekeeping ensures you won’t trip or stumble over an obstacle.

While Lifting, Carrying & Lowering:


 Get as close to the load as possible - Lifting capacity is reduced
the further away you are from the load.
 Put yourself in the best possible position for the lift, avoiding
reaching, bending or twisting.
 Use a well balanced stance, feet shoulder-width apart and one foot
slightly ahead of the other.
 Bend at the knees and grip the object with the palms of your hands
and fingers - The palm grip is much more secure.
 Tighten your stomach muscles as you begin to lift.
 Keep your lower back in its normal curved position and you use
your legs to lift - The muscles in your legs are much stronger than
your back muscles.
 To change direction, shift your foot position and turn your whole
body - Pick up your feet and pivot ensuring you do not twist your
back.
 Lower the load using your legs and maintaining the curve in your
lower back - You can injure your back just as easily lowering the
load as you can lifting it.

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