When lifting an object, there are many things that can cause an injury. Proper training is imperative to avoid back injury, and in turn, keep productivity optimal and employees happy and healthy.
Today, we are offering at least 10 lifting safety tips, to keep you from incurring an injury that can easily be avoided.
- When lifting an object, use your leg muscles and not your back muscles.
- Keep your back straight and bend your knees (not your waist), and slowly and steadily raise the object.
- To avoid added strain, keep the object close to your body when lifting.
- Always grip an item that needs to be lifted with both hands, to keep an even balance.
- Test the weight of the object you are lifting, as small boxes may be deceiving.
- Wear a back brace, quality shoes that have good traction, and use gloves that are designed with texture grips.
- Make sure the load is packed corrected, so items within the box do not become dislodged, and throw off your balance.
- When carrying an item, situate it between your waist and shoulders, as this position puts less stress on your back muscles.
- Use a forklift or a dolly to assist you in moving heavy items.
- Make sure the path is clear, and walk using small, smooth strides.
In addition to the 10 lifting safety tips listed above, it is important to stretch muscles (morning, mid-day and the evening), to keep muscles warm and pliable. Stretching during the day will stave off fatigue, reduce chance of injury and make lifting an easier task.
When instructing and implementing safe lifting techniques in the workplace, both preparation and proper form are important factors to consider. Whether you are in the gym lifting weights, moving furniture, lumber or other heavy objects, being ill-prepared, and not following proper lifting techniques can lead to immediate and long-term injury.
Safety lifting techniques
Safety lifting techniques are not difficult to learn, but they must be repeated constantly, as to save time, people may “forget” to take the few extra seconds to implement safe lifting techniques. Safety posters, verbal reminders to your employees explaining your commitment to avoiding on-site injury, periodic assessments of workstations, and periodic office meetings are some ways to keep safety measures on the forefront of employee’s minds.