Safety poster - Materials handling:
Lifting safety should be a topic of all work safety meetings. It is important to know the proper way to lift and carry objects. Back injuries are a leading cause of missed work days. Not only can a back injury be extremely painful it could cause permanent damage to the spine such as paralysis. The rules to lifting safety are easy to remember and will save you a lot of pain.
Bend with your knees not with your back. This will help to prevent pulling a back muscle. If you need to lift something higher than your head use a ladder to help you reach the spot. Always make sure your feet are body are facing the same direction the entire time you are lifting or carrying heavy objects.
Check the weight and make sure it is not to heavy for you to carry. If it is ask someone to help you lift it. Make sure you have a firm grip on the object before lifting it up. Walk slowly and calm moving with fast jerking motions could cause a muscle sprain. Get as close to the object as possible to avoid acrching your back which can cause muscle strain.
