Understanding the Risks of Manual Lifting

By itself, lifting is not necessarily a risk factor for injury. It becomes a risk when other variables are added. For example, lifting with poor technique is a risk, such as lifting when the back is bent and especially when it is twisted. Lifting a load of unexpected or unknown weight also adds risk to the equation. The lifter may think that the item weighs more or less than it does. Getting the body ready to lift an object depends on knowing how much the item weighs. Using more force than is needed to move materials can increase the risk of falling backwards or of straining the back. The same risk applies to unstable loads or loads that shift suddenly, such as liquids.

Risk factors – Task

  • How is the load held?-the load must be held close to the body as increased distance increases the risk
  • Posture-bending and using our legs and core muscles (abdominals) reduce the risk of injury
  • Work routine-frequent lifts (without breaks) throughout a shift induces fatigue and will increase the risk
  • Distance-walking far distances with a load increases the risk of injury
  • Route-unfamiliar routes can increase risk. Routes must be known and mapped out prior to lifting
  • Team handling-poor coordination between team members will increase the risk of injury

Risk factors – Individual

  • Age-as we progress in age we must exercise greater caution due to natural vulnerability; youthful exuberance is just as dangerous as younger persons may over-exert themselves and sustain injuries
  • General fitness-maintaining good physical conditioning reduces the risk of injury
  • Health-a lifestyle punctuated by smoking, excessive drinking and stress increases the risk of injury
  • Experience-utilizing one’s experience wisely is a good risk-mitigating factor
  • Training-awareness and practice is arguably one of the best safeguards of injury prevention

Risk factors – Load

  • Weight-lifting heavy loads can expose us to injuries
  • Size-large loads may be difficult to manage and lift safely by one person
  • Stability-unstable loads will present the risk of unexpected movement and can cause injuries
  • Specific hazards-we must also be aware of hazards present due to the physical characteristics of the load
  • Hand holds –ability to firmly grip the load will also influence the risk of injury

Risk factors – Environment

  • Space-limited space for moving load will increase risk of injury
  • Lighting-persons lifting and moving load must be able to see clearly
  • Stairs/changes in level-moving load up and down stairs must be properly coordinated to avoid injury
  • Temperature-extreme temperature will induce fatigue and lift can adversely create an impact
  • Draughts/wind-lifting and moving loads in windy situations can increase degree of difficulty

And a bonus quote from Will Rogers:

“Even if you’re on the right track, you’ll get run over if you just sit there.”

Thanks for the share, TO!