Dec 11, 2020
How to Lift at Work Properly
Lifting and carrying boxes may be something you are used to doing at work, and while you may be physically capable of lifting the items, you may be putting your spinal cord, discs, vertebrae, nerves, and muscles at risk.
Back injuries are one of the most common injuries sustained while performing work duties. Improper lifting is the leading cause of work-related back injuries, so learning the correct methods for lifting and handling heavy loads can greatly reduce the risk of back pain and injuries.
1. Size Up the Load
- Check for slivers, nails, sharp corners, and exposed staples
- Use gloves if necessary
- Ask for assistance if needed
- Make sure you have a path cleared where you are moving the load to
2. Lift the Load
- Bring the load as close to you as possible before lifting
- Lift with your legs, not your back
- Keep your head up, your back straight and bend at your hips
3. Move Your Body
- Keep the load close to your body
- Look where you are walking to ensure there are no tripping or falling hazards
- Shift your feet to turn instead of twisting your body
4. Get Set and Lower
- When setting a load down, let your leg muscles carry the weight
- Set it down on solid ground
- Make sure your fingers and feet are clear before setting down the load
If you sustain a work injury due to lifting, you may be entitled to file a workers’ compensation claim to get medical treatment and make up for time missed from work. Georgia workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance system, meaning that employees can still successfully pursue benefits even if they were partially at fault for their injuries.
Contact our Atlanta workers’ compensation attorneys at 770-922-3660 to speak with our legal team for free today.
