Safe Lifting and Carrying Training

Written by Mary Salatino | Edited by Michael Purser

Two Workers Carrying a Box in a Warehouse

Safe lifting and carrying are crucial components of healthy work habits and can prevent the risk of a variety of injuries.

This article explores the significance of training for safe lifting at work under OSHA guidelines and how it contributes to creating a more secure work environment.

Safe Lifting Techniques Training

Carefully handling heavy loads in the workplace can prevent injuries and save businesses from liability. Let’s discuss some of the basic principles of materials handling, including ergonomic principles, specialized warehouse techniques, office safety and rigging material.

OSHA mandates educational programs to ensure employees can recognize and mitigate workplace hazards, emphasizing the significance of correct lifting practices.

By adhering to federal guidelines, businesses not only fulfill regulatory requirements but also create a workplace culture of employee welfare. Careful lifting and material handling contribute significantly to a reduction in workplace injuries and associated liabilities.

Ergonomics Training:

Ergonomics focuses on optimizing workspaces and processes to minimize strain on the body, ultimately reducing the risk of musculoskeletal injuries associated with lifting and other tasks.

Examples of sound ergonomic design in the workplace include task lighting to minimize eye strain, organized workspaces with proper storage, comfortable seating at workstations and more.

Warehouse-Specific Training:

Warehouse environments pose unique challenges, such as handling diverse loads, operating machinery and navigating confined spaces. Warehouse workers need specialized training to prepare for the demands of their specific work environment.

Training can include programs for specific tasks such as forklift operation, use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and operating heavy machinery.

Office Training:

Lifting and carrying activities also occur in office settings. Education includes proper handing techniques for office-related tasks, as well as creating an ergonomic office environment to minimize the risk of injuries.

Desk arrangements, taking necessary breaks and recognizing hazards such as tripping and improper storage go a long way toward reducing repetitive stress injuries in the office.

Rigging Material Training:

Rigging is the practice of packaging and securing a load for transport. Rigging training covers the proper use, inspection and maintenance of equipment such as slings and ratchet straps, ensuring that workers understand correct rigging practices.

This program is particularly crucial in industries where heavy loads are transported using rigging equipment. Employees learn the importance of conducting thorough inspections before each use, identifying potential material wear and tear and ensuring that all equipment meets safety standards.

Rigging material education also emphasizes load calculations, ensuring that workers understand the weight-bearing capacity of different devices. Proper communication during lifting operations is highlighted, with workers trained to use signals and work collaboratively to ensure precision.

Safe Lifting and Carrying Techniques

Mastering these techniques allows you to adhere to regulatory standards while protecting your health.

Manual handling techniques include:

Load assessment: Begin by evaluating the object or objects to be lifted. Determine the weight, size and shape of the load. Make an informed decision on the appropriate technique and whether additional assistance or mechanical aids are necessary.
Proper body mechanics: Maintain a neutral spine throughout the lifting process. Bend at the hips and knees, not the waist, to reach the load. Engage the core muscles and keep the load close to the body. This helps distribute the weight more evenly and minimizes lower back strain.
Use of leg muscles: The powerful muscles in the legs should bear the brunt of the lifting. Push through the legs to stand up, keeping the back straight. This technique not only ensures a more stable center of gravity but also reduces the risk of back injuries.
Stable base and balanced stance: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart to establish a stable base. Distribute the weight evenly between both feet, allowing for better balance and reducing the risk of slips or falls during lifting and carrying.
Team lifting protocols: For heavier or bulkier loads, team lifting is advisable. Communicate effectively with team members to coordinate movements and ensure everyone is aware of their role in the process. Team lifting distributes the load and minimizes strain on individuals.
Grip and handling: Maintain a secure grip on the load using both hands. Choose appropriate handholds or grips to ensure control during lifting and carrying. If handles are unavailable, grasp the load firmly along the bottom edge, keeping wrists straight.
Awareness of surroundings: Be mindful of the surroundings during the lift. Clear pathways of obstacles and ensure a direct route to the destination. This awareness minimizes the risk of collisions and accidents during transportation.
Breaks and hydration: Take breaks between lifting tasks to allow muscles to rest. Staying hydrated is also crucial, as dehydration can contribute to fatigue and increase the risk of injuries.
Mechanical aids and equipment: Whenever possible, use mechanical aids and equipment such as dollies, hand trucks or forklifts for heavy or awkward loads. These tools reduce the physical strain on workers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Additionally, you should avoid the following high-risk behaviors when lifting:

Poor posture: Improper form reduces the mechanical effectiveness of the human body and exposes muscles, joints and bones to danger. This includes rounding the back, bending at the waist or twisting the spine, all of which increase the risk of injury.
Overestimating strength: Be aware of and honest about your capabilities. Don't attempt to lift objects that are too heavy. This can lead to muscle strains, sprains and even more severe injuries.
Twisting movements: Prevent twisting the spine while carrying a load. Instead of twisting at the waist, pivot the entire body using the feet to change direction. Twisting motions increase the risk of back injuries and should be minimized.

By embracing these tips and completing a high-quality online material handling training program, workplaces not only adhere to standards but also cultivate environments where employees thrive, injuries are minimized and productivity soars.

Enroll in one of our 100% online safety classes today to empower yourself and your workforce with the lifting skills needed for a safer, more efficient and more successful workplace.