You may not be aware, but the most experienced workplace injury is also the most avoidable. 50% of US employees are expected to experience physical damage to their lower back at some point. In any job that includes lifting any kind of object you might be vulnerable to back injury. That is why Axcess want to make sure you know every safety strategy about lifting heavy things, so you will not ever injure your back. So SafetyEd came up with a little safety checklist for you to go through before you lift heaving objects. First off, before you even lift it, answer these questions:
- Can I transport this without assistance?
- How high off the ground does it have to be?
- What is the distance that it must be carried?
- Is this going to be a recurring part of the job?
- Are you only lifting this object to impress or prove something?
Now that you have asked yourself these questions, SafetyEd wants you to keep these tips in mind when you lift the object:
- Arrange your footing appropriately
- Bend down with your knees, maintaining straightened back posture and keeping your neck and head upright.
- Grasp the object using the full palm of your hands.
- Pull the object next to your body
- Get assistance if you are not strong enough
Always make sure to run through SafetyEd’s Checklists before you lift heavy objects. Stay smart and stay safe!