Safe Handling and Lifting To Prevent Injury

Improperly lifting boxes, machines, tools or other heavy objects can result in painful, debilitating injury. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 1 million work-related back injuries are reported annually, making it the second leading cause of lost work -- only behind the common cold. Thankfully, a large portion of these injuries can be prevented by following safe lifting practices.

Some of the most common injuries caused by improper lifting include:

• Herniated disc - conditions which occurs when the soft jelly-like substance protrudes through the hard exterior of the vertebrae.
• Sprain - one or more ligaments surrounding a joint is torn, twisted or otherwise severely injured.
• Muscle strain - occurs as a result of muscle overuse. Muscles can only withstand so much pressure before the fibers of which they are made begin to tear; thus, causing a muscle strain.

Plan Ahead

If you're faced with the task of lifting and moving a heavy box or object, take a moment to plan out your action ahead of time. Feel the item to see whether or not you can comfortably handle it on your own. If it's too heavy for you to carry the entire way, find  another set of hands to assist you. Having someone to carry half the weight will make the process ten times easier.

Also, plan out your route on where you'll take the item. Ideally, you want a clear path with the fewest number of obstructions possible. Some common obstructions that may hinder your ability to move a heavy object include other employees, low-clearance ceilings, tools left scattered on the ground, stairs, and machines/equipment.

Tips For Lifting Heavy Objects:

• Position your feet about shoulder-width apart when lifting a heavy object.
• The golden rule of lifting is to lift with your legs, not your back. Avoid bending your back to lift heavy objects, and instead bend your knees to lower your body.
• Avoid lifting heavy objects if you are currently suffering from a MSD injury.
• Time your time and don't rush when you're carrying a heavy object.
• Keep your head up and facing the direction at which you need to travel.
• If an object is heavy and/or awkwardly shaped, find another worker to give you a hand.
• Avoid lifting and handling heavy objects if the floor is wet or otherwise slippery.
• Follow the same approach when lowering the object back down to ground -- bending your knees rather than your back.