Safety Tip: Manual Handling Materials Injury Prevention
March 6, 2018
Manual handling of materials is the most common cause of fatigue and lower back pain
Safe Lifting Recommendations
- Use stretching as part of a comprehensive ergonomic program - make sure to stretch muscles and stay limbered up throughout the day
- Before lifting, read the label of the weight - and always test the load for stability and weight. STOP if the material is too heavy and obtain help or mechanical equipment
- For loads that are unstable and/or heavy, follow lifting guidelines for equipment use, reducing the weight of the load and repacking containers to increase stability
Lift Planning
- Wear great quality boots to avoid slips, trips and falls on the same elevation
- Wear the correct PPE gloves - choose gloves that fit properly
- Lift only as much as you can safely handle by yourself. Never hesitate to ask for help with material handling
- Keep the lifts in your power zone (e.g. above the knees, below the shoulders and close to the body)
- Use extra caution when lifting loads that may be unstable
When Lifting
- Get a secure grip
- Use both hands whenever possible
- Avoid jerking by using smooth, even motions
- Keep the load as close to the body as possible
- To the extent feasible, use your legs to push up and lift the load, not the upper body or back
- Remember: Nose over Toes. Do not twist your body, step to one side or the other to turn
- Alternate heavy lifting or forceful exertion tasks with less physically demanding tasks
- STOP and get help
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Did you know...
Whether you sit for long periods at your desk or spend most of your day on your feet, it's important to protect your back. Here are some tips to help protect your back.