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Prevent Lifting Injuries from Nonroutine Activities

Man lifts box in storage room.

Few consider the risks associated with nonroutine tasks and how to prevent lifting injuries associated with them. Because these lifts are performed infrequently, employers may have given limited thought to proper training or equipment necessary for safe lifting.

Some examples of nonroutine lifts include:

  • Moving boxes from storage.
  • Moving voting equipment.
  • Collecting large parcels in the mail.
  • Relocating equipment or desks.
  • Transporting copier paper.
  • Replacing water cooler bottles.
  • Refilling water softener salt.
  • Retrieving archived files.

Lifting carries with it hazards that contribute to a number of claims to members. Fortunately, these lifting injuries can be prevented or reduced by using some creative methods.

Rather than simply lifting better, certain design and process changes can be implemented to reduce risks. For example, the storage room could be configured with a focus on reducing lifting injuries.

Prevent Injuries in the Storage Room

Some considerations for the storage room:

  • Often frequently used items get placed in front of more uncommon items, which can make uncommon items more difficult to access. This causes employees to search for the item and can make safe lifting more difficult, as employees may reach or lift in awkward positions. Keeping storage rooms organized with items in manageable quantities in designated areas can help reduce the risk of injury and save time.
  • Placing heavy items along with frequently used items between waist and shoulder height potentially reduces lifting injuries. If items are stored at higher-than-shoulder height, providing proper ladders or step stools can help employees lift more safely.
  • People carrying loads are at an increased risk for slips, trips and falls. Cluttered storage rooms can also cause employees to reach and lift in awkward positions due to lack of space. Keeping storerooms clean and clear goes a long way toward reducing injuries.

Eliminate Lifting

Another option is to eliminate or minimize the lift. This can be done in a variety of ways:

  • Some lifts may be avoided by replacing the need to lift. Installing a bottle-less water cooler would eliminate the need to lift and replace new water bottles. Members should always consider ways to eliminate lifting.
  • Delivery personnel often have appropriate equipment and training to lift safely. Having items delivered directly to the shelves or in close proximity to where items will be used can transfer risk to the delivery personnel. Having distributors do heavy lifting or having mail delivered rather than picked up can also transfer risk. Discuss delivery options with vendors to minimize risk to employees.
  • Buying items such as copier paper, printer toner or water softener salt in bulk can be cost effective; however, carrying a 50-pound bag of salt can be a challenge even for a frequent lifter. Consider ordering smaller packages of supplies. For items that arrive in large cases, consider opening the case and carrying smaller loads.
  • Providing carts or dollies for heavy objects can minimize tasks involving lifting and carrying. This works especially well if the items delivered are placed upon the cart and wheeled into the storeroom upon delivery. Then employees can simply wheel the cart out to distribute the items.

Basic Lifting Reminders

Not all lifts can be avoided. When someone has to lift, always remember the following.

  • Plan the lift and consider the route to travel prior to the lift. Clear the route, open doors and/or get help before lifting.
  • Hold the load close to the center of the body. Lifting with the knees keeps the weight closer to the waist and helps prevent injury.
  • Lifting above shoulder height should be avoided whenever possible. However, the use of proper ladders or step stools can help make higher lifts safer by putting the load between waist and shoulder height.
  • Avoid twisting or turning. Face the load while lifting and pivot at the feet with the load facing the direction of movement.
  • Lift steadily and evenly. Lifting items too quickly can increase the risk of injury.
  • Get help when lifting heavy, large or awkwardly shaped loads.
  • Use carts or material handling devices to carry heavy or multiple loads.

Although proper lifting techniques are also important, these considerations should help reduce the difficulty or frequency of most lifts. MCIT loss control consultants can help identify and remedy lifting hazards in the workplace. Members can call MCIT toll-free at 1.866.547.6516 to be connected with their consultant.

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