Learn the safe techniques for lifting

There are many things that affect your back and keep it healthy.  Poor physical fitness, lack of flexibility, stress, poor posture, lack of rest and participating in certain recreational activities can all hurt your back.  Any of these combined with poor lifting practices are bound to cause a back injury.

When you go to lift something, size up the job first by determining where the item needs to go.

• Is there a tool on hand that can make the lift easier?
• Can I break it down into a more manageable load, or should I get extra help?
• Remember to start your lift by standing close to the object, your feet should be spread at shoulder width, bend at the knees, keep your back straight and do not bend at the waist.
• Tighten your abdominal muscles and lift with the muscles in your arms and legs, not your back.
• If you must turn, do so by moving your feet, do not reach and twist when holding an object.  When setting an object down, apply all of the same techniques.

RS SafetyTV has a selection of videos and SAFEME Essentials has a lesson on proper lifting.

WR employs Rick Means as a Safety Specialist who is available to members to help draw up safety plans and suggest topics for safety meetings. Contact him at 360-200-6454 or [email protected].