Safe Lifting Techniques

Introduction: Workplace Back Injuries

Back injuries lead to more lost days of work than any other kind of injury or illness. Of the 1.3 million reported lost-time injuries and illnesses in 2017, sprains and strains were by far the largest category, 43 percent according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Of these, most were back-related.

What is the most common type of injury at work?

Overexertion Injuries – This includes injuries related to pulling, lifting, pushing, holding, carrying, and throwing activities at work. Overexertion has consistently been the number one workplace injury according but it is also the most expensive.

The Reality of Lifting in the Workplace

Now let’s focus on your workplace. Can you think of even one job or occupation where you never have to lift an object? I can't. Lifting of objects can range from very light objects, such as a piece of paper, a pin, or a pen, to very heavy objects like loads of boxes. Lifting is very much a part of our everyday jobs. And, because it is something we do so often, we tend to do it without thinking, or at least we do until we strain a muscle, or worse, hurt our backs.

Common Injuries Caused by Improper Lifting

Lifting incorrectly can result in a variety of injuries. Back strain is a very common one. It results from over-stretching certain muscles, but it can be avoided by practicing safe lifting techniques. A hernia is another injury associated with lifting. A hernia does not generally result from a single lifting effort. It is usually the result of continued extreme exertion, especially done contrary to the structure of the body.

Importance of Physical Condition and Back Care

Don't underestimate the importance of being in good physical condition. Years of poor posture, overeating, lack of exercise, stress, and improper lifting can catch up with you. Learn how your back works and what you can do to keep it strong. Ask for your physician's recommended stretching, warm-up, and reconditioning exercises; then practice them regularly.

Safe Lifting Techniques

Safe lifting plays an important role in keeping your back healthy. Although there doesn't seem to be just one right method to lift an object, there are lifting techniques that take strain off the low back area.

Sizing Up the Load and the Area

These techniques have several steps in common. They recommend you "size up the load"; that is, look it over. Decide if you can handle it alone or if you need help. When in doubt, ask for help. Moving a box or other object that is too heavy for one person is not worth strained and sore back muscles. You should also "size up the area"; look over the area where you are carrying the object to, and make sure it is clear of obstacles before beginning to carry the object.

Maintaining Grip, Balance, and Body Position

For that period of time spent lifting, the load becomes a part of your body. You support and propel the object while it is attached to you. This attachment should be firm and sure. Get a good grip. Attaching yourself to a load will change your balance. To keep this change of balance to a minimum, keep the load close to your body, to your normal center of gravity between the legs, between the shoulders.

Using Legs and Proper Footwork

Good foot position allows you to keep your balance and bring into play the full power of your leg muscles. Leg muscles are more powerful and more durable than back muscles. Let your leg muscles do the work. Again, footwork is important once you avoid twisting your upper body. Use your feet to change direction. Don't twist your body. Twisting compounds the stress of the lift and affects your balance.

Team Lifting and Communication

When you have someone helping you lift an object, teamwork becomes important. If you're going to be carrying the load to another point, both of you should decide in advance how it is to be handled. Check the route and clearance. One person should be the leader and be in a position to observe and direct the other. Lifting and lowering should be done in unison. Don't let the load drop suddenly without warning your partner.

General Lifting Rules for Employees

Everyone has a way of lifting that seems most natural. Examine yours to see if you are using lifting techniques that reduce strain on your lower back. As the employee making the lift, you're being counted on to make lifts that are safe and comfortable for you based on the items we've discussed:

• Some general lifting rules include:
• Stay in shape
• Prepare to lift by warming up the muscles
• Size up the load; ask for help, if needed. Stand close to the load, facing the way you intend to move
• Use a wide stance to gain balance
• Ensure a good grip on the load
• Keep arms straight
• Tighten abdominal muscles
• Tuck your chin into your chest
• Get a good grip
• Keep the load close
• Keep your balance with footwork
• Let your leg muscles do the work
• Don't twist your body

How can back injuries be prevented in the workplace?

OSHA, Ergonomics, and Back Safety

In closing, OSHA, or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, does not have a specific regulation for back safety, but training employees to lift safely is implied by the General Duty Clause of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970. The law requires employers to provide employees with a workplace that is “free of recognized hazards.” OSHA has stated that it will not focus its enforcement efforts on employers that have implemented effective ergonomic programs or that are making good-faith efforts to reduce hazards that cause worker strains and sprains. “Ergonomics” is the science of designing the job, equipment, and workspace to fit the worker. Back safety is a cornerstone of an effective ergonomics program.

Conclusion

Should you have any questions or need answers to your safety & health questions, you can always reach out to me through the publication. Thanks for reading this important topic.