MMH - General Practice

What types of protective clothing should be worn when lifting?

DO WEAR DO NOT WEAR

• context Lightweight, flexible, tear and puncture-resistant clothing.
• context Appropriate footwear, such as safety boots with slip-resistant soles.
• context Protective gloves that are appropriate for the materials being handled.
• context Clothing that may interfere or 'snag' on the object you are lifting, such as aprons, coats or clothing with exposed buttons, zippers or loose flaps.
• context Large or bulky mitts that limit your grasp.

What should you do before lifting?

• context Always check before lifting to see if mechanical aids such as hoists, lift trucks, dollies, or wheelbarrows are available.
• context Get help with heavy or awkward loads.
• context Assess and identify the weight of the load.
• context Be sure that you can lift the load without over-exertion.
• context Be sure that the load is "free" to move.
• context Check that the load's contents are stable and balanced. Repack items so the contents will not shift, where possible.
• context Check that the planned location of the load is free of obstacles and debris.
• context Be sure that the path to the planned location of the load is clear. Grease, oil, water, litter, and debris can cause slips and falls.
• context Determine if a particular handling and lifting technique is needed for the load or material being handled (for example, compact loads, small bags, large sacks, drums and barrels, cylinders, and sheet materials like metal or glass).
• context Do not lift if you are not sure that you can handle the load safely.