Whenever possible, mechanical aids should be utilised. Dollies, forklifts, wheel barrows and other aids can help lighten the load and protect workers' health.
When human power is required, though, the following tips for lifting heavy objects are essential in avoiding injuries.
Create a plan
Prior to ever bending a knee, a plan needs to be established. Workers need to know where the items will go, if the route and subsequent storage location is clear, if there are doors that need to be opened and if a suitable resting point is available along the route should one be necessary.
Keep your friends close, and objects closer
Even if a pair or team of lifters is involved, each individual needs to take responsibility for their own corner of the job. Whenever possible, elbows should be kept tucked in next to the body with the object as close to the torso as possible.
Continue reading about the following Top Tips When Lifting Heavy Objects:
- Lift with your legs
- Drop in the bucket
- Shelve it
- Don't twist and shout
- Deconsolidate and balance
It is impossible to remove all threat of injury, but following these tips when lifting heavy objects will certainly mitigate the risk.