In many workplaces, manual handling tasks are a common part of the daily routine. Whether you’re lifting boxes in a warehouse, moving supplies around an office, or carrying equipment across a construction site, proper lifting techniques are essential to avoid workplace injuries.
In this blog post, we will outline some key tips for lifting safely, helping you and those around you to stay safe and injury-free at work.
Risks of Manual Handling
If done incorrectly, manual handling can lead to injuries such as back pain, strains, and sprains. These injuries can result in lasting injuries.
Guidance published by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) emphasises the importance of using proper handling techniques to minimise these risks.
Guide to Safe Lifting
Here is a handy step-by-step guide to ensure you’re being safe when carrying out material handling tasks:
1) Assess the load
Before lifting, take a moment to assess the load. Determine its weight, shape, and whether it is stable and easy to grasp. If the load is too heavy or awkward to handle alone, seek assistance or use appropriate handling equipment (such as pallet trucks).
2) Plan the lift
Ensure you have a clear path to where you need to go. Remove any obstacles that could cause trips or slips. Decide on the best lifting technique based on the load and your own capabilities.
3) Adopt the proper lifting position
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart to provide a stable base, and place one foot slightly forward to maintain balance and prepare for movement. Bend at the knees and hips, not the waist. This allows your legs, which are stronger than your back, to do most of the lifting work. Keep your back straight, shoulders back, and chest out.
4) Lift and carry
Use both of your hands to get a strong and secure grip on the load, ensuring your grip is firm and comfortable. As you lift, straighten your legs in a smooth and controlled motion. Avoid jerking or twisting your body as you lift, keeping the load close to your body to reduce the strain on your back. Hold the load as close to your body as possible to maintain balance and reduce the impact on your spine, while keeping the heaviest side of the load next to your body.
As you lift, it is best to avoid twisting – move your feet to change direction instead of twisting your torso, as this can cause serious back injuries. Keep your shoulders and hips aligned as you lift and manoeuvre your load.
5) Set the load down
To lower the load, bend at your knees and hips again. Keep your back straight and control the movement.
Recommended Products
Here at SafetyLiftinGear, we stock a number of useful products that can help you to move heavy loads safely.
For example, this Furniture Moving Strap can be used to lift bulky items more efficiently. The product is made up of two harnesses that connect to the same strap, so two people can work together to move loads weighing up to 300kg.
Buy This Product
You should also check out our @ Home Lift and Move range. This is our own collection of premium lifting and moving products, ideal for tackling heavy lifting jobs around the house.
Here are some of the very handy products you'll come across in our @ Home Lift and Move department:
- Furniture dollies
- Roller skate sets
- Heavy lifting straps
Click the button below to browse these products and others like them.
@ Home Lift and Move
Additional Safe Lifting Tips
- Know your limits: Don’t attempt to lift more than you can safely handle – it’s always better to either ask for help or use material handling equipment to take the hard work out of lifting and moving heavy loads.
- Take breaks: Avoid repetitive lifting and take regular breaks to reduce fatigue and minimise the risk of injury.
- Use equipment: When possible, use suitable lifting and handling equipment to reduce strain on your body and increase efficiency.
By following these safe lifting guidelines, you can significantly reduce your risk of injury and create a safer and more productive workplace. Remember, your health and safety should always be your top priority, and taking the time and effort to lift correctly is a crucial step in staying safe.
Here at SafetyLiftinGear, we have extensive range of material handling products available to buy or hire - including pallet trucks, dollies, and skates.
Material Handling Equipment
READ MORE: The 10 Principles of Material Handling
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