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Staff

Risk Management
900 Grant Street
Room 302
Denver, CO  80203
Phone: 720-423-3613
Fax: 720-423-3229

Back Safety

Lessons for a Safe Lift

Lifting, carrying and reaching is the second leading cause of on the job injuries to DPS employees.  (Slip and falls are the leading cause.)

LESSON ONE: Tips for Safe Lifting

• Think first, before you lift.
• Face the load
• Test the load. Nudge it with your foot.
• Plant your feet securely with one foot slightly forward for balance.
• Get close to, or "hug" the load.
• Bend at your knees, not at your waist.

LESSON TWO: Protect Your Back

• Spread your feet to shoulder width apart.
• Tighten your abdominal muscles before lifting.
• Bend at the knees, NOT at the waist.
• Keep your back straight. Balance your shoulders and chest over the lower spine.
• Raise yourself up using the strong thigh muscles.

LESSON THREE: Get Help When Lifting

• Use a hand truck. Stack your load safely.
• Use a cart. Push, don't pull.
• Get help when lifting awkward or heavy loads.

Links

Safe Lifting Tutorial (North Seattle Community College)

Back Exercises (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons)