Safe lifting steps 

Follow the guidelines below to safely lift material:

• Take a balanced stance, feet placed shoulder-width apart.  When lifting something from the floor, squat close to the load.

• Keep your back in its neutral or straight position.  Tuck in you chin so your head and neck continue the straight back line.

• Grip the object with your whole hand, rather than only with your fingers.  Draw the object close to you, holding your elbows close to your body to keep the load and your body weight centered.

•  Lift by straightening your legs.  Let your leg muscles, not your back muscles, do the work.  Tighten your stomach muscles to help support your back.  Maintain your neutral back position as you lift.

• Never twist when lifting.  When you must turn with a load, turn your whole body, feet first.

• Never carry a load that blocks your vision.

• To set something down, use the same body mechanics designed for lifting.