TOOL-BOX TALK

MANUAL LIFTING
There are many areas of construction work where mechanization cannot take the place
of sheer muscle, and it is in such areas that the majority of injuries occur.
The inevitable results of lifting incorrectly are strained backs, slipped discs, sprains and
strains, and a complexity of internal injuries.
It is therefore important that correct methods of manual lifting are followed. Safe lifting
can only be carried out by the proper use of the right muscles. Back and abdominal
muscles are weak, the leg and thigh muscles are strong. The spine has a natural and
comfortable shape when a man is standing upright; however, if he bends, the spine is
arched and it becomes weaker. If the spine can be kept in a straight position when
lifting, the strain of the lift goes to the strong muscles of the leg and thigh and loads can
be lifted with much less physical effort and much more safely. This is the basic principle
of manual handling.
There are four (4) significant points to be observed for a proper Manual Lift :
1.

GRIP

A good grip makes maximum use of the palm of the hand, the ball of the
thumb, and the base of the fingers.

2.

BACK

The back must be kept straight to maintain its most natural and
strongest position. This means that the knees and ankles must be bent
and the chin kept well into the chest and the body positioned as close to
the load as possible so as to act as a counterweight.

3.

FEET

The feet should be apart the width of the hips with one foot slightly in
front of the other so that a natural lead off is obtained.

4.

ARMS

The arms must be kept as close as possible to the body.

The important factor in manual handling is that a man should know his capabilities and
ask for assistance with loads beyond his capabilities. In dual lifting, partners should
ideally be of approximately the same height and weight so that the load does not
become unevenly distributed.
Loads, even when properly lifted, can slip and the man lifting must be prepared for such
an eventuality and wear the proper protective equipment, safety footwear is a must to
protect the feet. Gloves should be worn to protect the hands from lacerations and
splinters and to give some protection if the fingers are trapped between the load and
other surfaces.

SBG-PCM Safety Dept.

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