Proper lifting techniques Back safety Proper lifting techniques

Prevent back injuries Think defensively about your back Use common sense Follow good lifting techniques

Size up the load Test the loads weight by lifting one of the corners Make sure you can handle the weight Long objects may need to be carried by two people

If the load is too heavy Ask a fellow worker for help Use a dolly or other mechanical lifting device Split the load into smaller ones

Lifting techniques Lift with your legs not your back Place your feet close to the object Center your self over the load

Lifting techniques Bend your knees Get a good hand hold Lift straight up smoothly

Don’t twist or turn Keep the load close to your body Keep it steady, sudden twisting or turning could result in injury Turn your body by changing foot positions, not twisting

Know your path Is your path clear? Are there any holes? Are there any spilled liquids? Check your footing.

Set it down safely Setting the load down is just as critical to back safety as lifting it Lower the load slowly by bending your knees

Set it down safely Let your legs do most of the work Don’t let go of the load until it is secure on the floor

Push, don’t pull If the object is on rollers, push Pushing puts less strain on your back Pushing is safer should the load tip over

Plan ahead Place objects that will need to be moved later on racks rather than the ground Know where you need to go before you start

Additional factors Straighten up! Poor posture can put stress on back muscles. Get in shape! Poor physical condition leads to weak back muscles. Relax! Stress and tension contribute to back pain.