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Workers Can Avoid Back Injuries by Lifting Safely
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Safety tips on lifting and carrying are available from the National Safety Council. |
Following a few practical tips can help workers lift safely and avoid injury, according to the National Safety Council, which is promoting safety information this June in celebration of National Safety Month.
The following pointers are taken from two council publications — “The Lifting Challenge” and “Lifting and Carrying”:
- Never assume you can lift something yourself. Estimate the weight of the object by tilting it up slowly. If it's hard to move, it's too heavy to lift. Get someone to help, or use a lifting aid.
- Keep the object you're lifting as close to your body as possible.
- Don't twist your back as you lift. Instead, move your feet to turn.
- Always lift with your legs, not your back.
- It's easier to lift objects with handles, and it reduces the strain on your back.
- If you have to carry something any distance, keep a firm footing, and plan your route to avoid tripping hazards.
- Regular exercise strengthens your back and abdominal muscles.
- If lifting is a regular part of your job, spend a few minutes every day before work on power warm-ups.
- Eat right and exercise. Extra pounds cause extra strain on your back.
For more information on NAHB resources on construction safety and health, e-mail Rob Matuga at NAHB, or call him at 800-368-5242 x8507.
 Protect Your Workers and Your Profits
The “Jobsite Safety Video,” available through BuilderBooks.com, provides an overview of the key safety issues residential builders and workers need to focus on to reduce accidents and injuries. Based on the “NAHB-OSHA Jobsite Safety Handbook,” this DVD is intended to be used as part of an essential residential construction safety-training program and includes two 20-minute videos.
To view or purchase this DVD online, click here, or call 800-223-2665.
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