Safety

TOOLBOX TALK: LIFTING SAFETY
Back injuries are a very common injury in construction. In this Toolbox Talk, we will address proper lifting techniques, and how to reduce the risk of a back injury as well as other general safety tips.
Preparation:
Ensure that you are wearing proper clothing and PPE
Steel toe or composite footwear should always be worn when lifting heavy items
Gloves are always recommended when lifting certain objects
Stretch before you attempt to lift a heavy object or at beginning of shift
If possible, store materials at waist height to reduce the strain on your back
Have materials delivered as close to final destination as possible
Assess the object you are going to be lifting
Determine the weight of the object before lifting
Determine best place to grip the object
Ensure that your travel path is free of slipping and tripping hazards
Know your own lifting restrictions and capabilities
Get Help:
Use carts, dollies, forklifts and hoists to move materials
When lifting a load more than 50 lbs, get help from an other worker
Use carrying tools with handles to carry odd-shaped loads
Proper Lifting Techniques:
Have your feet spread about shoulders-width apart.
Your feet should be close to the object.
Get a firm grip on the object.
Keep your back straight and elbows close to your body.
Keeping your back straight and head up, straighten your legs to lift object
At the same time tighten your stomach muscles to provide back support (Don’t hold your breath while doing this!)
While carrying the object DO NOT twist or bend at the waist, move your feet and legs when turning.
Keep the load as close to your body as possible
To set the object down, use the same technique used to lift the object
Lift as smoothly as possible, try not to “jerk” the lift