Lifting and moving objects safely at work is something many people have to deal with — especially if they work in a factory or warehouse. Yet not everyone knows how to safely lift objects from the floor, and not everyone has the strength to lift. So, before you throw your back out, here’s what you need to know to minimize back and shoulder injuries.
Assess the Difficulty of the Load Before Lifting
Assess the difficulty of the load before attempting to lift. Make sure employees understand this is the first step in lifting; it’s not actually lifting the load. If possible or necessary, multiple employees may need to lift heavy loads together. Alternatively, employees should use lifting aides or machines to help minimize the risk of injuries.
Assess the Difficulty of the Load Before Lifting
Assess the difficulty of the load before attempting to lift. Make sure employees understand this is the first step in lifting; it’s not actually lifting the load. If possible or necessary, multiple employees may need to lift heavy loads together. Alternatively, employees should use lifting aides or machines to help minimize the risk of injuries.
Move Constantly Throughout the Day to Avoid Back Injuries
Moving throughout the day is also important. Workers who sit throughout the day, don’t spend time moving, and don’t exercise regularly are at a greater risk for a back injury.
Assess High-Risk Employees
Employees with a previous history of back injury should be watched carefully and prevented from lifting heavy objects unless or until you can confirm they are not at serious risk for future injuries. This may be confirmed by a doctor or health care professional. But, in most cases, those with previous injuries should not lift at all (or should lift minimally). Why? Because, even though workers’ compensation can cover injuries, negligence is a claim that can allow an employee to sue the company directly and may result in additional money paid out, over and above the workers’ comp claim.