Workplace Safety

 

Lifting

Correct Lifting and Carrying

Many workplace accidents and injuries are caused through incorrect lifting and carrying of goods. Prior to lifting any item manually, workers must consider the following:
 

A. Nature of the Load

  1. Its position, i.e. on floor, wedged under shelf, stored above your head;
  2. Weight - light, heavy, is there a need for a second set of hands?
  3. Grip - can item be easily gripped or is it slippery, jagged, long?
  4. Moving parts - will item fall apart or parts operate when moved?


B. Conditions

  1. Distance to be moved.
  2. Is area free from obstructions.
  3. Height of item.
  4. Adequate lighting.
  5. Type of flooring (wet, greasy, slippery).
  6. Hot or cold temperatures, causing numbness or fatigue.


C. Physical Hazards

  1. Sharp edges.
  2. Over sized.
  3. Hot or cold.


D. Chemical Hazards

  1. Spilling or leaking (toxic fumes or burns).


E. Personal Limitations

  1. Strength.
  2. Age.
  3. Muscular energy.
  4. General health.
  5. Degree of skill and experience.

How to Lift Safely

  1. Step close to load, legs slightly apart.
  2. Squat, back straight.
  3. Grip item firmly, as close to body as possible.
  4. Tense back and stomach muscles.
  5. Lift with straight back and full width of hands.
  6. Lift by straightening legs and raising the upper body.