Proper Lifting Techniques 101

If lifting inventory or moving equipment (no matter how heavy) is a big part of your job, it’s important to be mindful of your technique. Study up on these do’s and don’ts of proper lifting and avoid all-too-common workplace injuries.

Smart, General Guidelines

• Stack heavier items on lower shelves.
• Stack items used most frequently at a convenient waist level.
• Use a stool or ladder to access items on shelves — not chairs or stacked boxes.
• Ask for help if the load is heavy or bulky.
• Use handrails if traveling stairs, avoid undue speed and carry only items you can safely see over.
• Limit lifting by hand — use carts or available mechanical equipment such as forklifts or pallet jacks when possible.

Proper Lifting Techniques

• Before lifting, size up the load by pushing it lightly with your hands or feet to see how easily it moves. This tells you how heavy it is.
• Warm up — stretch your legs and back before lifting anything.
• Make sure the weight is balanced and packed so it won’t move around.
• Wear gloves to prevent exposure to nails and slivers.
• Be sure to have a tight grip on the object before you lift it. Handles applied to the object may help you lift it safely.
• Bring the load as close to you as possible before lifting and avoid reaching across something to lift a load. This moves the load away from the body and can increase your chance of injury.
• Lift with your legs, not your back.
• Keep your head up and your back straight and keep the load directly in front of your body.
• Shift your feet to turn — don’t twist your body.
• Perform lifts at waist height, with the elbows in close to the body.
• Try to carry the load in the space between your shoulder and your waist.
• Use your leg muscles to comfortably lower the load by bending your knees.
• Make certain your fingers and toes are clear before setting the load down.