Strategies for safe lifting include:
- Look at the label and find out how much the object weighs.
- Ask for help if you need it.
- Plan the move in advance.
- Stand closely to the object you wish to lift.
- Keep your body weight over your feet while you lift.
- Bend your knees and keep your elbows close to your body.
- Lift with your legs while you keep your back straight.
- Keep objects close to your body while lifting.
- Lift the load smoothly, without jerking, tugging, or twisting.
- Avoid twisting your back: keep your back straight while lifting.
- Maintain balance: keep your feet one shoulder-width apart as you walk while carrying a heavy object.
- Change direction by moving your feet. Do not change direction by twisting your back.
- Observe the same technique when putting items down.
- Use a back support: acts as a reminder to lift correctly, but does not decrease the risk for back injury.
