Poor lifting and unsafe handling injuries are some of the most common among construction workers. Fortunately, they are also usually preventable by practicing the following ergonomic guidelines.
Pre-Lifting Techniques
- Determine whether or not you will need assistance to do the job.
- Consider the size or shape of the load – bulky or odd-shaped building materials could create additional challenges.
- Determine if you will have to turn or change direction while carrying the load.
- Find out if the route you will take with the load is clear of obstructions and slip, trip or fall hazards.
- Make sure your route is not dangerously close to vehicular traffic, especially if it is traveling at high speeds.
- Determine what personal protective equipment you will need to protect your hands and prevent slippage.
Lifting Techniques
- Get as close as possible to the load and keep it close to your body.
- Always bend from the knees and not the back, and lift using your legs.
- Be aware of your balance.
- Stand on a stable, even surface, and wear proper foot protection to prevent slips and other injuries.
- Bring the load down to waist level if lifting from above and wear a hard hat to prevent head injuries from dropped materials.
- No matter what you are carrying, always avoid reaching and lifting at the same time. Carrying Techniques • Look ahead instead of down to make sure your path is clear.
- Watch out for terrain changes and avoid carrying upstairs if possible.
- Have someone else open doors, gates or other closed entries for you.
- Keep your shoulders, hips and feet aligned. Do not twist at the waist.
- Set the load down on a firm surface if it becomes too heavy or unstable.
- Watch for pinch or shear points on carts, dollies and hoists.
- When you are finished transporting the load, set down the corner or edge of the object closest to you first, keeping your fingers out from underneath the load to avoid getting pinched or crushed.