Lifting and Back Protection Lifting and Back Protection Company Harlan McPhee North McPhee South Powerhawke Ravex Richards Company Using the Form Job Name * Job Name and/or Number Date * Lifting and Back Protection Low back pain is one of the most common reasons people miss work, second only to the common cold. A recent survey shows that 75% of back injuries occurred while performing lifting tasks, which stresses the importance using proper lifting techniques when picking up objects. Back disorders can develop gradually as a result of repetitive activity over time or can be the product of a single traumatic event. Back pain is often ignored until the symptoms become serious, often resulting in a disabling injury. Serious back injuries can be the immediate result of improper lifting techniques and/or lifting loads that are too heavy for the back to support. Contributing Factors Associated with Back Disorders: • Poor physical condition – not having the strength to perform physical tasks without strain • Bad body mechanics – how someone lifts, pushes, pulls, or carries objects • Repetitive lifting of awkward items • Heavy lifting • Fatigue • Poor conditions or design of the work site – uneven ground, obstacles, or slip/trip/fall hazards • Bending, twisting, or reaching while lifting • Staying in one position for too long • Stressful living and working activities Proper Lifting Tips: Always warm-up: Perform simple back and leg stretches before performing any lifting tasks. Plan ahead: Know what you are going to be lifting, especially the weight and size of the object and if it’s safe to lift on your own. Make sure the work area is flat, dry and clear of debris. Stage the work area when possible to limit the need to move heavy objects. Proper staging includes placing materials as close as possible to the work areas and storing materials at ideal heights so employees can utilize the power zone (close to the body, between mid-thigh and mid-chest height) to take materials from storage. For Example, when using a pipe tree store larger heavier pipe higher up on the pipe tree. This will prevent having to bend over to pick up heavier pipe out of your power zone causing more strain on you back. Check your pathway: Make sure the pathway is clear. Remove and tripping hazards or debris. Check for any wet or slick surfaces and uneven ground. Use ergonomic equipment: Use lift assists, such as: forklifts, dollies, carts, hand trucks, or hoists. Make sure you are trained before using the equipment. Get help when needed: When lifting awkward or heavy loads, utilize a two-person lift. Make sure you lift at the same time, keep the load level and communicate. Wear proper shoes: Wear appropriate shoes based on the lifting task. Proper Lifting Techniques: • Get as close to the object as possible. • Use a wide stance with one foot forward and to the side of the object for good balance. • Keep your back straight, push your buttocks out, and use your legs and hips to lower yourself down to the object. • Use this basic lifting technique for small objects when you can straddle the load and use a wide stance. • Grasp the object firmly with both hands. • Prepare for the lift, tighten your core muscles, look forward and upward, keep a straight and strong back. • Lift slowly and follow your head and shoulders. Hold the load close to your body. Lift by extending your legs with your back straight, and breathe out as you lift. Additional Comments Foreman Name * Attended By (Required) Toolbox Talk Attendee Attended By (Required) Toolbox Talk Attendee Attended By (Required) Toolbox Talk Attendee Attended By (Required) Toolbox Talk Attendee Attended By (Required) Toolbox Talk Attendee Attended By (Required) Toolbox Talk Attendee Attended By (Required) Toolbox Talk Attendee Attended By (Required) Toolbox Talk Attendee Attended By (Required) Toolbox Talk Attendee Attended By (Required) Toolbox Talk Attendee Attended By (Required) Picture Upload Drop a file here or click to upload Choose File Maximum upload size: 52.43MB reCAPTCHA Submit Δ
