For this #SafetyMythMonday, we’re busting a few “Safe Lifting” Myths and focusing on the Golden Rule of Lifting!
We’ve all heard “bend your knees,” but that’s only 25% of the story. You can bend your knees all you want, but if you twist at the top or hold the box two feet away from your chest, your spine is still at risk.
AND, the Myth of Using Back Belts Persists– Many believe that back belts/braces can allow them to lift heavier weights. However, research shows back belts do NOT protect injury; they often provide a false sense of security that leads to over-exertion.
Back injuries remain the #1 workplace musculoskeletal disorder. Below are a few tips and a few ‘do nots for safe lifting;’ however, ensure that your safety program includes a safe lifting and ergonomic policy that is relevant to your facility.
We also strongly recommend that Safe Lifting NOT be a classroom ‘training’, but rather a discussion with hands-on demonstration and practice. More importantly, add, ‘in the field’ lifting, to observe and practice where the work is performed. Plus, always, ALWAYS, follow-up, mentor, and reinforce safe lifting tips on a regular basis. For additional benefit consider adding a “Peer Support Team’ that watch out for each other to prevent musculoskeletal injuries.
Bust the Myth Beyond “Bend Your Knees” and Back Belts for Safe Lifting!
🛑 STOP! Do NOT:
- Twist while loaded: Rotating your spine while carrying weight is the fastest way to a herniated disc.
- Keep the object at arm’s length: Carrying a 10lb box away from your body puts nearly 100lbs of pressure on your lower back.
- Rely on a back belt: They don’t make you “Super-human”; they can actually cause your core muscles to weaken over time.
âś… INSTEAD:
- Focus on Body Mechanics (not just bending your knees)
- Check the Weight: Give the box a “test kick” or tilt to see if it’s heavier than it looks.
- Pause and Think: Survey the area and your route.
- Pause and Think: Survey the area and your route.
- Wide Base: Keep your feet shoulder-width apart for a stable foundation.
- Belly-to-Belly: Keep the load as close to your center of gravity as possible.
- Nose Between Toes: If you need to turn, move your feet. Never twist your torso.
- Team Lift: If it’s awkward or over 50lbs (or your company’s limit), ask for help or use a dolly.
#Ergonomics #SafetyFirst #Logistics #BackHealth #WorkplaceSafety #SafetyMythMonday
“Most back injuries don’t happen because of one ‘heavy’ box. They happen because of a hundred ‘wrong’ lifts. 📦
Print this 6-point checklist and post it anywhere liftings occur! It takes 4 seconds to run through, but it could save 4 months of discomfort and physical therapy!
Download the full ‘Safe Lift’ guide below! 👇”