Safe Lifting Techniques STORE HEAVY ITEMS AT WAIST TO CHEST LEVEL!!! Placing heavy items between waist and chest level reduces the back compression associated with these lifts! Significant back compression capable of increasing the risk of injury occurs at approximately 770 pounds of force! Upright posture with object close to the body: 20 lb. lift = 80 pounds of force 50 lb. lift = 400 pounds of force Lifting 40 – 50 lbs. to chest or shoulder height can injure the neck and shoulders. Slightly bent with extended arms: 20 lb. lift = 400 pounds of force 50 lb. lift = 600 – 800 pounds of force All heavy items (over 40 lbs.) should be stored on middle shelves, whenever possible,.) Bending, reaching and twisting to lower levels: 20 lb. lift = 600 – 800 pounds of force 50 lb. lift = 1,000 to 1,400 pounds of force STORE HEAVY ITEMS AT WAIST TO CHEST LEVEL!!!