Lift properly to prevent injuries

Learn how to lift and carry loads the right way to keep from being injured on the job or at home. No matter what your size or strength, knowing how to lift things right makes your job easier and safer.

Chances are that you have been taught correct lifting techniques during your job training, but you might associate the techniques only with “heavy” lifting; they should apply to even the basics such as moving files in an office.

Key reminders: Check the load you plan to carry to make sure it is distributed evenly and doesn’t have sharp or protruding objects. Check the path you are walking to make sure it is clear of objects that could make you trip or fall. Bend from the knees, both in picking up the load and setting it down at its destination. Don’t bend or twist your body while carrying.

For two helpful employee training tips sheets, call the program administrator for GlassInsure, NGA’s sponsored insurance program, at 800/640-7601, and ask for “Lifting from Start to Finish” and “Tips for Lifting and Moving Awkward Loads.”