Lifting Safely

In most work situations, objects that are very heavy are lifted and carried by machines such as forklifts. However, there are times when you may have to lift, adjust, or carry a heavy object. It is at these times that you run the risk of injuring your back.

Assess the Situation

Before lifting and carrying a heavy object, take a few moments to assess the situation.
How far will you have to carry the load?
Is the way clear of clutter, cords, slippery areas, overhangs, stairs, curbs, or uneven surfaces?
Will there be doors that are closed? Ask someone to hold a door open or place a wedge under the door to hold it open.

Before You Lift

Take a few moments to "size up the load." Test the weight by lifting a corner of the object. If it is too heavy or if the object is an odd shape, STOP!
Ask for help. Two or three people lifting a heavy object is much safer than trying to do it yourself.
Use a handtruck, pushcart, or a mechanical lifting device.
Consider using gloves that will improve your grip and protect your hands.
Never lift anything unless you are sure you can do so safely.

Lifting the Load

The KEY to lifting safely is keeping your back straight or slightly arched. NEVER USE YOUR BACK TO LIFT!
Start the lift by putting your feet close to the object. Get a firm footing.
Center your body over your feet.
Squat down like a professional weightlifter, bending your knees. Keep your back straight or slightly arched. You want your legs to do the lifting, not your back.
Grasp the load securely with your hands, and pull the load close to you. Smoothly lift straight up. NEVER TWIST YOUR BODY WHILE LIFTING, KEEPING YOUR HEAD UP, AS IF LOOKING STRAIGHT AHEAD, NOT DOWN.

Carrying the Load

As you carry the load:
Keep your back straight or slightly arched.
Walk slowly and surely.
Use your feet to change directions. Never twist your back.
Avoid leaning over.
Avoid lifting a load over your head. If you become tired, set the load down, and rest for a few moments.

Setting the Load Down

Setting the load down is the reverse of lifting.
Position yourself where you want to set the load.
Squat down. Let your legs to do the work, not your back.
REMEMBER NOT TO TWIST YOUR BODY WHILE SETTING DOWN A LOAD, AND KEEP YOUR HEAD UP. Once the load is where you want it, release your grip. Never release your grip on a load until it is secure. You don't want to drop a load on your foot. Or, if someone is helping you, dropping a load unexpectedly can injure the other person

Handtrucks and Pushcarts

When using a handtruck or pushcart, remember:
It is easier and safer to push than to pull.
Stay close to the load, try not to lean over, and keep your back straight or slightly arched.
Use both hands to control the handtruck or pushcart.
Use tie-down straps, if necessary, to secure the load.
Avoid stairs and inclines. If you must take a load to another floor, use a freight elevator. Never "horse around" with handtrucks and pushcarts.

Forklifts

If an object is too heavy to lift or carry with a handtruck or load onto a pushcart, use a forklift.

WARNING: Never attempt to operate a forklift or other piece of lifting equipment unless you have been trained and authorized by your organization to do so