When you lift…
DO…
- Plant your feet firmly – get a stable base.
- Bend at your knees – not your waist.
- Tighten your abdominal muscles to support your spine.
- Get a good grip – use both hands.
- Keep the load close to your body.
- Use your leg muscles as you lift.
- Keep your back upright, keep it in its natural posture.
- Lift steadily and smoothly without jerking.
- Breathe – If you must hold your breath to lift it, it is too heavy – GET HELP.
DO NOT…
- Lift from the floor.
- Twist and lift.
- Lift with one hand (unbalanced)
- Lift loads across obstacles.
- Lift while reaching or stretching.
- Lift from an uncomfortable posture.
- Don’t fight to recover a dropped object.
- Don’t hold your breath while lifting.