What should be considered before starting the lift?
Before lifting a load, it is important that the task has been assessed to determine if the lift can be done safely. The NIOSH lifting equation may be helpful. Below are some factors that should be considered before lifting an item:
Do not proceed with the lift until you are certain it can be done safely without any injuries or incidents. Report any issues or concerns to your supervisor so they can be resolved.
- requirement What is the weight of the load?
- ppe How will the load will be gripped or held?
- requirement When lifting or carrying the item, will your vision be blocked?
- requirement Where is the item being taken, and are there any obstacles along the path of travel (e.g., stairs, uneven ground, ice or snow, cords, debris, etc.)?
- requirement Should it be a two-person lift, and is a spotter needed to help look for obstacles and other hazards?
- requirement Is the load too heavy or awkward to lift manually?
- requirement Are there any lift aids that could be used (e.g., carts, forklifts, hand trucks, platform trucks)?
How should heavy large sacks be lifted?
Lift heavy and large sacks in two stages using an intermediate platform.
When lifting, remember to:
Stage 1
Stage 2
- context Straddle the end of the sack.
- context Bend the hips and knees.
- context Keep the back straight.
- context Don't stoop.
- context Grasp the bag with both hands under the end closest to you. Keep elbows inside the thighs.
- context Lean forward and straighten the knees to set the bag upright.
- context Move your feet closer to the sack.
- context Squat with the sack between the thighs with one foot flat on the floor in front of the other.
- context Grasp the sack with your elbow inside the thighs. With one hand clasp the sack against your body and use your other hand to hold the bottom of the sack.
- context Stand up in one smooth motion.
- context Place the sack upright on the platform.
- context Place one foot in front of the other with the front foot along side of the platform.
- context Bend the hips and knees and keep the back straight.
- context Put one shoulder against the sack.
- context Readjust your grasp.
- context Lean the sack against your shoulder.
- context Stand up and straighten the hips and knees.
- context Make sure your hands and feet are clear when putting the load down.
How should bulky sacks be lifted?
Bulkier sacks are easier to carry on your back. Lift the sack onto your back from a platform as described below.
- context Move the sack to the edge of the platform.
- context Put your back against the sack.
- context Grasp the sack with both hands on the upper corners of the sack.
- context Ease the sack onto your back, bending your hips and knees before taking the weight.
- context Keep your back straight.
- context Stand up and straighten your hips and knees.
- context Stabilize the sack.
- context Move away without bending sideways.