Light industrial and manufacturing workers may be required to lift heavy loads. Yet, these workers need to ensure they are lifting correctly. Otherwise, they are susceptible to muscle strains, back pain, and other injuries.
How Lifting Correctly Can Help You Avoid Workplace Injuries
Lifting correctly is simple, effective, and safe. Once you learn how to lift heavy loads properly, you can minimize your risk of injury. Meanwhile, you'll be less likely than ever before to miss work due to an on-the-job injury. And, you can maximize your productivity while you work, too.
Tips to Help You Lift Heavy Loads Correctly
Here are five tips to ensure that you are lifting correctly — and can reduce your risk of a lifting injury at work.
1. Plan Before You Lift a Heavy Load
Think about how you will lift a heavy load. Consider the load's size and weight. From here, you can determine the best way to lift the load without putting yourself or others at risk.
2. Keep the Load Close
Ensure your load is close to your waist. This helps reduce the amount of pressure that the load places on your back. Furthermore, keep the heaviest side of a load close to your body.
3. Maintain a Stable Position
Do not place your feet right next to one another when lifting a heavy load. Instead, keep your feet apart, and place one leg slightly forward to maintain balance. Also, wear comfortable footwear, as this can help you avoid trips, slips, and falls.
4. Protect Your Back
If necessary, you can slightly bend your back, hips, and knees when you start to lift a heavy load. However, you should avoid a fall squat in which you fully flex your back or hips and knees.
5. Avoid Twisting and Lifting
Never twist your back or lean to the side as you lift a heavy load. Conversely, keep your shoulders level and have them face the same direction as your hips. And move your feet as needed.
What to Do If You Experience a Workplace Injury While Lifting
You may do everything possible to ensure you are lifting correctly at all times. But, despite your best efforts, you may experience an on-the-job lifting injury.
In this scenario, notify your supervisor immediately. You can receive medical care to diagnose and treat your injury. In addition, you can do what's necessary to recover.
There may be times when a coworker experiences a lifting injury as well. In these instances, seek out medical care for the injured worker.
Take Precautions to Ensure You Are Lifting Correctly at Work
Practice makes perfect, particularly when it comes to lifting heavy loads. Dedicate the time, energy, and resources necessary to learn how to lift heavy loads correctly. That way, you can limit the risk of lifting injuries at work.
Finally, if you have mastered lifting heavy loads and want to find a new job in the light industrial or manufacturing sector, Ascend Staffing can help. Browse our job board today to see what light industrial and manufacturing job opportunities are currently available.
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