// Lifting, pushing, pulling

MMH - Compact Bags

What are some tips for carrying compact bags? The best way to handle a bag depends on its size, weight, stability, and how far it is to be carried.

The best way to handle a bag depends on its size, weight, stability, and how far it is to be carried. When lifting, remember to:

requirement Straddle the end of the bag.
requirement Bend the hips and knees.
requirement Keep the back straight.
requirement Use a secure grip.
requirement Grasp the bag with both hands under the closer end. Keep elbows inside the thighs.
requirement Lean forward, straightening the knees to set the bag upright.
requirement Readjust the straddle position, moving feet closer to the bag.
requirement Readjust the grasp, with one hand clasping the bag against the body and the other under it.
requirement Stand up by thrusting off with the back leg and continuing in an upward and forward direction.
requirement Lift the bag up with the knee while straightening the body.
requirement Do not twist your body.
requirement Put the bag on the shoulder opposite the knee used to thrust the bag up.
requirement Stabilize the bag on the shoulder.
requirement Begin moving without bending sideways.

Avoid unloading a bag from the shoulder directly to floor level. Use an intermediate platform or get help from a co-worker.

requirement Stand close to the platform.
requirement Place one foot in front of the platform.
requirement Bend hips and knees.
requirement Keep the back straight.
requirement Ease the bag off the shoulder and put it upright on the platform.
requirement Pull the bag slightly over the edge of the platform.
requirement Stand close to the platform with the bag touching the chest.
requirement Clasp the bag against the body with one hand, the other hand holding the bottom of the bag.
requirement Step back.
requirement Bend hips and knees, keeping back straight.
requirement Ease the bag on the floor.

context Avoid lifting from the floor whenever possible.
context Use mechanical assistive devices such as a hand truck, a scissor lift, a load lifter or a pneumatic lifter to raise or lower the load.
context Lift with the help of a co-worker (preferably of similar height, if possible).
context Raise or lower the work surface to suit the height of the worker.
context Wear gloves that are of the proper size for the individual and that have a surface that will increase grip stability.
context Pad the shoulder to provide a cushion.
context Fact sheet confirmed current: 2023-12-13