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Protecting your back from serious injury through the use of safe lifting and carry techniques will not only help prolong your backs health, but it will make your job easier. All it takes is a little training and practice and you will avoid most unnecessary back pain.
When you can’t find a lifting partner to help you with heavy lifts, try to find a mechanical aid. Lift trucks, hoists, push carts, conveyors and trolleys are meant for you to use and not collect dust while watching you break your back.
Modified Lifting Techniques
If the lift is going to be awkward it is best to look at using a modified lifting technique
Two Person Lift
- It is best that both persons involved in the lift be of similar height
- Envision the lift as a battle. Your enemy is the load and you and your partner are the soldiers. One person should take charge to lead you into the battle so that you work together and not against each other.
- Be sure to lift the load together and avoid jerking motions. Try to match your partners pace and when lowering the load, lower it together.
The Golfer’s Lift
The golfer’s lift is designed to pick up small light loads in restricted areas where you are unable to bend your knees or get close to the load.
- Swing one of your legs straight out behind you
- While you are leaning forward keep your back straight
- Placing one of your hands on your knee or on a solid object around you, you will achieve better support for your body
The one person sack lift
- Stand at the end of the sack
- Lift the sack to an upright position
- While straddling the load, place one of your hands under the bottom of the sack and use your other hand to hold the sack against your body
- Bend at the knees and raise the sack onto a platform
- Stand as close to the lifting platform as you can
- Bend at the knees until the sack can be balanced on your shoulder
- Avoid any jerking motions and straighten up
- To avoid the sack lift, if the sack is small enough you can place it into a box with handles and carry it.
The two person sack lift
- When lifting with a partner one person should always take the lead
- Use one hand to grab the bottom corner and your other hand to grab the top corner
- Make sure your grip is firm
- Lift the sack together with your partner
- Be sure not to lift with your back. Use your leg and thigh muscles instead
With the use of safe lifting and carrying techniques you can avoid painful back problems. Try to follow these useful tips:
- Comfortable clothing that allows for good movement of the hips, knees and shoulders will make your life much easier when lifting
- Exposed buttons or loose flaps on your clothing will most likely get in your way causing snags and dangerous situations
- A good sensible non-slip shoe with a broad based low heel, will keep the move more comfortable
- When lifting heavy objects be sure to wear safety boots or shoes to help prevent injury from dropped loads