Easycrate Safe Lifting Tips

Injury through improper lifting of heavy objects is very common and leaves people in serious and long lasting pain -but it is avoidable. Do not fall victim to common back injury by taking note of these simple tips when lifting your crates:

 

1) Think before you lift 
Plan the lift. Where is the load going to be placed? Use appropriate handling aids where possible. Will help be needed with the load? Remove obstructions. For long lifts, such as from floor to shoulder height, consider resting the load mid-way to change your grip.

2) Keep the load close to the waist
Keep the load close to the waist for as long as possible while lifting. The distance of the load from the spine at waist height is an important factor in the overall load on the spine and back muscles. Keep the heaviest side of the load next to the body.

3) Adopt a stable position
Your feet should be apart with one leg slightly forward to maintain balance (alongside the load if it's on the ground). Be prepared to move your feet during the lift in order to maintain a stable posture. Avoid wearing over-tight clothing or unsuitable footwear, such as heels or flip flops.

4) Ensure a good hold on the load
Where possible, hug the load close to the body. This may be a better option than gripping it tightly with the hands only.

5) Don't bend your back
A slight bending of the back, hips and knees at the start of the lift is preferable to either fully flexing the back (stooping) or fully flexing the hips and knees – in other words, fully squatting.

6) Don’t flex the back any further while lifting 
This can happen if the legs begin to straighten before starting to raise the load.

7) Don't twist
Avoid twisting the back or leaning sideways especially while the back is bent. Keep your shoulders level and facing the same direction as the hips. Turning by moving your feet is better than twisting and lifting at the same time.

8) Keep your head up 
Keep your head up when handling the load. Look ahead, not down at the load once it has been held securely.

9) Move smoothly 
Don't jerk or snatch the load as this can make it harder to keep control and can increase the risk of injury.

10) Know your limits 
Don't lift or handle more than you can easily manage. There's a difference between what people can lift and what they can safely lift. If you're in doubt, seek advice or get help.

11) Lower down, and then adjust 
Put the load down and then adjust. If you need to position the load precisely, put it down first, and then slide it into the desired position.

So when packing and moving your crates, remember these handy tips to ensure you stay safe and healthy. Visit our website to view our range of useful crates or for more information about hiring our crates please get in contact.