Unassisted Lifting

General

• Unassisted Lifting is covered in Chapter 4 of the Synovos Safety

Manual. Read the chapter before taking this eCourse.

• Materials shall be stored on level surfaces

• The Requirements and Guidelines for unassisted lifting shall be

posted in a conspicuous area as a reminder to those who
perform lifting
(found in attachments to Safety Manual)

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Requirements
• The upper limit (most weight one can safely lift
and Synovos policy weight) for a manual
unassisted lift is 40 lbs.

• 2-person lifts are allowed as long as they are performed

safely and per the lifting guidelines in Par 4.3. All 2-
person lifts are limited to 80 lbs. maximum.

• Any lift in excess of 80 lbs., or items that cannot

be properly grasped, or lifted without using an
awkward position must be performed with the
assistance of a lifting device.

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Lifting Techniques

Adopt a stable
position

Get a good hold

Start in Good
Keep the load close to Posture
your waist.

Don’t flex the back any further

while lifting

Avoid twisting the back any

further while lifting

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Lifting Techniques

Keep the head up when lifting

Move smoothly

Don’t lift or handle more

than can be easily managed

Put down and then

adjust

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Techniques for Pushing or Pulling
Material handling equipment
should have handle heights
that are between the shoulder
and waist

Only use equipment designed

for the job and is in good
operating condition

Enlist help as necessary

whenever slopes or
uneven surfaces are
involved

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Unassisted Lifting Tips

Good Housekeeping

Clean floors reduce the risks from

trips

Orderly shelving reduces the risk of

cuts/abrasions

“Power Zone” for Lifting

 Definition: Where arms and back can lift the
most with the least amount of effort
 Close to body between mid-thigh and
mid-chest
 Storing heavier materials at Power Zone arm
heights is important

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Unassisted Lifting Tips

“Power Position”

 Maintains a healthy back

 Neutral, slightly arched lower back
 Should be used whether sitting or lifting

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Unassisted Lifting Tips

Examples of Lifting in Neutral “Power” Position

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Unassisted Lifting Tips
Proper Body Mechanics When Lifting

 Head high; chin tucked; back in “power” position

 Keep lower back slightly arched
 Stand straight; keep weight close to body
 Use proper lifting techniques

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Unassisted Lifting Tips

Proper Hand Holds

 Makes lifting easier; reduces risk of

injury
 Should accommodate larger hands
 Should not dig into fingers or palms
Pushing vs. Pulling
• Pushing usually preferable
 Uses larger muscle groups
 Applies more force to the
load
 Pulling carries greater risk
of strain and injury

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 Unassisted Lifting Tips
Appropriate attire
• Clothes should be comfortable around hips, knees
and shoulders
• Avoid exposed buttons and loose flaps
• Sensible shoes with low heal and non-slip sole
• Safety shoes when foot injuries are possible

Task Rotation
• Rotation of individual’s tasks
• Rotation of personnel performing
tasks
• Both means help reduce stressors

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 Take the Quiz

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