In the hustle and bustle of the workplace, lifting and moving objects is part of the daily grind. But all it takes is one wrong move to turn a routine task into a painful injury. Back injuries from improper lifting are among the most common workplace injuries, and they can sideline workers for weeks—or worse.
The good news? With the right knowledge and techniques, these injuries are almost entirely preventable. This guide will walk you through the fundamentals of material handling safety, from understanding how your body works during a lift to recognizing signs of injury. Let’s dive in.
Your lower back works hard, so lifting wrong can strain muscles or cause serious injuries like herniated discs.
Your spine is an engineering marvel, supporting your body while allowing you to bend, twist, and move. It’s made up of vertebrae cushioned by discs that act like shock absorbers. But the lumbar region—your lower back—already carries the weight of your upper body. When you lift improperly, it bears even more stress, putting you at risk for:
- Muscle Strains: Overstretching or tearing the muscles in your back can cause pain and limit movement.
- Herniated Discs: Excess pressure can cause a disc to rupture, pinching nearby nerves and leading to pain, numbness, or weakness.
Plan ahead to lift safely. Test the weight, keep the load close, avoid twisting, and take breaks to protect your back.
Proper planning can prevent most lifting injuries. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) provides guidelines to assess lifting risks and set safe weight limits. While the math can get technical, here are the key factors to keep in mind:
- Weight of the Object: Test the weight before you lift. If it feels too heavy, break it into smaller loads or ask for help.
- Distance from Your Body: Keep the load close to your body. The farther it is, the more strain it places on your back.
- Height of the Lift: Avoid lifting objects from the floor or above shoulder level. If needed, use intermediate surfaces like tables or trolleys.
- Twisting Movements: Don’t twist your body while lifting. Always turn your entire body—feet, hips, and shoulders—toward the load.
- Repetition: Frequent lifting can lead to fatigue. Schedule breaks to allow your body to recover.
- Grip and Coupling: Ensure you have a secure grip. Consider using gloves for slippery surfaces or transferring items into containers with handles.
Lift smart by using your legs, keeping the load close, and avoiding twisting or lifting above shoulder level.
Once you’ve planned your lift, follow these steps to execute it safely:
- Set a Stable Base: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, one foot slightly in front of the other for balance.
- Bend Your Knees: Squat down by bending at the hips and knees, not the waist. Avoid bending forward.
- Maintain Good Posture: Keep your back straight, shoulders back, and chest out. Look straight ahead, not down.
- Lift With Your Legs: Use the strength of your leg muscles to lift the object, straightening your knees and hips slowly.
- Hold the Load Close: Keep the object as close to your body as possible, ideally at waist height.
- Take Small Steps: Move slowly, and pivot with your feet instead of twisting your torso.
- Lower Slowly: Bend your knees to lower the load, keeping your back straight.
Listen to your body. Stop if you feel pain, use cold packs, and seek medical help for any suspected back injuries.
Sometimes, even with the best precautions, injuries can happen. Knowing the warning signs of a back injury is crucial:
- Sudden pain, often accompanied by a “pop” sound.
- Pain that worsens with movement or specific activities.
- Muscle spasms or stiffness.
- Numbness or weakness in the legs.
If you suspect a back injury:
- Stop Immediately: Continuing to lift can worsen the injury.
- Apply Cold: Use a cold pack to reduce swelling and numb pain.
- Seek Medical Help: Consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
- Rest: Avoid heavy lifting until you’re fully recovered.
The right tools, like dollies or lift-assist devices, can make heavy lifting safer and easier.
Sometimes, the best way to prevent injuries is to use the right tools. Consider these options:
- Hand Trucks and Dollies: Perfect for transporting heavy or awkward loads.
- Back Braces: Provide extra support during lifts, especially for frequent tasks.
- Lift-Assist Devices: Equipment like hoists and conveyors can reduce strain.
A workplace culture that values safety ensures everyone works smarter and stays injury-free.
Safe lifting isn’t just about individual techniques—it’s about creating a workplace culture that prioritizes safety. Here’s how employers and employees can work together:
- Regular Training: Ensure all employees are trained in proper lifting techniques and risk assessment.
- Clear Communication: Encourage open dialogue about lifting concerns and hazards.
- Accessible Equipment: Provide the right tools and ensure they’re readily available.
- Accountability: Remind each other to follow safe practices and report unsafe conditions.
Lift smarter, not harder—protect your body, support your team, and go home feeling great every day.
Safe lifting is a skill that can protect your body and improve your efficiency at work. Here are the main points to remember:
- Plan Your Lifts: Assess the weight, distance, and height of the lift, and use tools when needed.
- Lift Safely: Follow proper techniques, lift with your legs, and avoid twisting or lifting above shoulder level.
- Listen to Your Body: Stop immediately if you feel pain, and seek help for any potential injuries.
References
References Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) – Safe Lifting Guidelines Available At: https://www.osha.gov/ergonomics
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) – Safe Lifting Recommendations Available At: https://www.osha.gov/ergonomics
OSHA – Manual Material Handling
Available At: https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/osha2236.pdf
National Safety Council (NSC) – Lifting Safety Tips
Available At: https://www.nsc.org/getmedia/a98369c0-fb56-4e1e-ac38-43ea9cc9ccca/backs-english.pdf.aspx
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Workplace Safety and Ergonomics
Available At:https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/ergonomics/index.html
