Safe Work Methods Training

Proper Lift/Lower and Push/Pull - continued

  1. Pivot Feet, Don’t Twist. Even if all other lifting methods are followed there remains a strong likelihood that a back injury will occur if twisting under load takes place at the waist. Twisting at the waist exerts strong torsion forces on muscles, ligaments and disks. Take the twist out of object movement by pivoting or shifting your feet in the direction you wish to move.

  2. Use Aids to Assist with the Object Movement. The risk of back injury can be reduced through the use of a number of aids. Obviously, items like hand trucks can take a big load off of the back, but also things like a ledge or platform can help reduce injury by providing a rest or leverage point.

A team lift should always be considered if the object being lifted or moved is heavy. The key to this method is to plan your movements in advance, utilizing any type of aid that can help reduce exposure to injury.