How to Lift Safely

While work in the food industry has always required repetitive lifting, bending and stooping, back injuries have been comparatively few, both on and off the job because our employees have learned the proper way to lift.

Since back pain could affect us, both on and off the job, it is important that we understand and have some knowledge of the various causes of backaches. These causes are:

             70% result from degeneration or aging of the spinal disc.

             20% are due to inflammation (arthritis, urinary infection, etc.)

             10% are due to actual back injuries and miscellaneous causes.

If you should suffer back pain, it is important to determine what the cause of the pain is. The problem may or may not be job related. A diagnosis and evaluation by a doctor can help you understand your particular condition.

We must remember, before we lift - We only have one back and we must take care of it.

At                            we use many machines, such as hand trucks, pallet jacks, forklifts and conveyors to help with the vast amount of merchandise that must be moved and displayed for our customers. Ultimately, all this merchandise must be handled and lifted by employees.

The factors that determine if objects can be lifted and carried safely are:

1.            Approach the load and size it up (weight, size and shape). Consider your physical ability to handle the load. Get help if there is any doubt.

2.         Place your feet close to the object to be lifted and 8-10 inches apart - one along side, one behind the object.

3.         Bend your knees to the degree that it is comfortable and get a good handhold. Then, using both leg and back muscles....Lift the load straight up - smoothly and evenly. Pushing with your legs, keep the load close to your body.

4.         Lift the object into carrying position, making no turning or twisting movements until the lift is completed.

5.         Turn your body with changes of foot position, after looking over your path of travel to make sure it is clear.

6.         Setting the load down is just as important as picking it up. Using leg and back muscles, comfortably lower load by bending your knees. When load is securely positioned, release your grip.

Over-reaching and stretching to reach overhead objects may result in strains or falls. Use a ladder instead of pallets, chairs, boxes carts or flat tops.

Avoid awkward positions or twisting movements while lifting.

Get help if the weight, shape or size factor indicates that the object cannot be lifted or carried safely.    L.C.