How To Lift Heavy Objects Safely...

How To Lift Objects Safely

In an environment where you must lift heavy objects, it's very important you know what to do, and what not to do, particularly as messing this up can result in a very unpleasant trip to the hospital. Use this step-by-step guide to answer all of your back-aching needs!

Step 1

Your feet are your primary source of weight support. Spreading your surface area equals out the weight spread throughout your body, and you can do this by having your feet apart, keep them in line with your shoulders to keep yourself balanced. Try putting one foot slightly in front of the other to balance you from falling backwards or forwards.

Step 2

You must bend your legs to reach the object in a squatting position. You don't need to bend your back for any reason. If this is too difficult, you can place one knee on the floor, while keeping one foot flat on the ground.

Proper Lifting Technique

Step 3

Keep that back straight! Bending your back can over-exert too much pressure, causing some quite painful consequences to your spine. Once you pick up the object, keep your back as straight as possible. The general advice is to keep your head and neck facing up and forward to prevent any injuries further up the spine.

Step 4

Take your time. You picked up the object, good job, but now you really don't want to make a mistake. Instead of straightening your back (which many would say is the 'common sense' thing to do), straighten your hips and legs until you are standing up again. Still keep your head and neck facing forwards.

Step 5

Protect your precious cargo! While you are holding the object, keep it as close to your stomach as possible to prevent it from making you lose your balance. Let your feet carefully walk you to where you need to put down the object, taking extra care to look for any possible danger on the floor or around you. Use another person to help guide you to your destination if possible. Do not move any part of your body during this time except your legs and hips. Where your legs go, the hips must go with them!

Step 6

Hard part over, it's time to set it down. Using the same technique as before, squat into a steady position with your back, neck and head straight. Once you've placed the object back on the ground, you're all set to go about your day. Good job!