Proper lifting techniques not only protect property from being dropped and damaged, but more importantly, they can protect your employees from injury. Strains, sprains and other injuries are too common and are often preventable with the proper knowledge and training.
In addition to preventing injuries, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires employers to protect workers from recognized workplace hazards and to comply with OSHA standards. This may apply to preventing injuries caused by lifting and moving items during employment. Read more about Prevention of Musculoskeletal Disorders in the Workplace on OSHA’s website.
Eliminating or reducing the need to lift objects is a preferred method of reducing employee injuries. In your workplace setting, however, lifting items may be necessary.
If you need to lift items, you should follow these steps:
Prepare
Lift
Carry
Set Down
For employers, consider implementing lessons relating to ergonomics in your professional development schedule that allow employees to train and practice safe lifting practices during new employee orientation and onboarding. To ensure proper lifting practices are continued, consider providing quarterly training for all employees/volunteers and including proper lifting observations in your employee supervision and evaluation process.
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