Safe Lifting

Follow the following Guidelines to Lift in Safety

The Route

• Check that the route that you will be carrying through is clear of all obstacles 

• Shoes, cables etc on the floor

• Low hanging lights, low ceilings and door frames

• Pictures, Mirrors and fittings on the walls

The Item​

• Check the item is secure to be moved

• Assess if the item can be split in to smaller carries

• Check the weight prior to lifting

• Can you see around the item once lifted?

• Can you safely reach around the item to carry? If you are unable to do either then ask for assistance from family or friends

The Stance​

• Take a position as close to the item as possible and position the feet approximately shoulder width apart with one foot slightly forward to assist with balance, and remember to keep your back straight when lifting with no twisting​

Lowering down to pick the item up

• ​Lower down slowly and smoothly keeping the back straight at all times and avoid any jerky movements

The Grip​

• Ensure that you have a good firm grip on the item before lifting​

The Lifting​

• Keep the back straight and tuck the chin in slightly to protect the Vertebrae at the top of the neck, use your feet for balance and lift the item vertically using your legs for power and keep the item pulled close to your body

The carry​

• Whilst carrying the item keep a steady place and keep your back straight at all times

Setting the item down

• Find a safe place to set the item down.  Please remember that setting the item down is just as important as the initial lifting.  

• Keep the back straight and lower using your leg muscles