Protect your body - lift safely
Lifting and carrying heavy objects is an everyday task in many workplaces. Protecting the body is important and the best way of doing this is to know how to lift safely.
"The most common error is that we lift with our backs instead of our legs. It loads the discs in your spine in an adverse way" says Anna Millbourn Olander, ergonomist and licensed physiotherapist.
Unfortunately you don’t always get warnings until it’s too late. In addition, heavy lifting affects the body in the long term by accelerating the signs of aging such as osteoarthritis.
"The ideal approach is to avoid lifting altogether if possible and instead push, pull or roll the item using a trolley or other form of lifting equipment. If you aren’t able to avoid lifting, you must lift correctly, take breaks and ask for help if needed. I think you should learn a good lifting technique and always use it, no matter whether you’re picking up a light box or lifting a large TV" says Anna Millbourn Olander.
The legs should be doing the work
"I often say that when you cannot maintain a good lifting technique, the item is too heavy. Think about how weightlifters do it. They lift huge weights, but close to their body and with a straight back. It's the legs that do the work" says Anna Millbourn-Olander.
Relieve the back with countermovement
If you have a job that involves a lot of lifting, countermovement is a great method of preventing injuries and relieving strain.
"If you have a job where you are constantly bending down, once an hour try putting your hands on your lower back and bend backward. This tip can also work well for those who work at a desk or workbench" says Anna Millbourn Olander.
Create conditions to lift correctly
Ergonomics should be fully taken into consideration when designing the workplace and if done properly it will prevent many injuries. It is not enough that there are lifting aids, they should be easily accessible, all employees should be taught how to use them, and it should be understood that it can take time to learn how to use these tools safely.
"If you are unable to avoid lifting, it is important that there is plenty of space around so that you can lift safely and without twisting your body; the floor surface should be even and it’s also a good idea to place heavy objects at a height where they are easy to access."
