Safe your Back: Smart Ways to Lift Heavy Loads!

1. Planning and Preparing Before Lifting and Moving Objects:

Assess the weight of the object to determine: if it can be lifted and moved by one person alone. If not, seek assistance. Avoid attempting to lift heavy objects alone.

Evaluate the environmental conditions: Is there enough space to lift or move the object safely? Check for obstacles, the condition of the floor (slippery or not), and sufficient lighting.

Use protective equipment and aids to reduce strain when lifting or moving objects: Wear gloves to prevent slipping, and consider using non-slip shoes or metal-capped shoes to protect against injuries from falling objects. Support your back with a back support belt.

Tip: Arrange the sequence of lifting or moving objects. Alternate between heavy and light objects to rest and reduce strain on the skeletal and muscular systems.

2. Lifting or Moving Objects (Solo Lifting)

Stable Footing: Stand close to the object, with one foot forward and one foot back for balance.

Bend Knees: If the object is low, bend your knees, keeping your back straight and maintaining the natural spine curve.

Secure Grip: Hold the object close to your body, between knee and hip level, ensuring it's not higher than your shoulders.

Engage Muscles: Straighten your legs using strength from your back, abdomen, buttocks, hips, and thighs, while preserving your spine's natural curve.

3. Lifting Objects with Two People (Assisted Lifting):

Positioning: Stand on opposite sides of the object, one person at the head and the other at the back. Use the same lifting technique as solo lifting: proper foot placement, bent knees, and maintaining a natural back curve.

Coordinate Lift: Securely grip the object and synchronize the lift with a countdown. Lift at the same speed to avoid imbalance.

Close to Body: Keep your arms close to your body and the object as close to yourselves as possible. Position your head in line with your spine, neither bending forward nor looking up. Maintain clear visibility of your pathway while lifting and moving the object.

Weight Distribution: If the object is unevenly weighted at the head and back and requires multiple lifts, and alternate positions to prevent strain on the skeletal and muscular systems.