Safe lifting procedures involve several key steps to minimize the risk of injury. Construction has one of the highest rates of back injuries of any industry, often from lifting and carrying heavy materials, working in awkward positions, and frequent bending to lift materials. [1]

Here are some general guidelines to follow:

• Whenever possible, use mechanical equipment like a dolly to move heavy objects horizontally.
• Never try to lift an item weighing over 50 pounds by yourself.
• Plan your lifts; make sure the path is clear and you are facing the direction of travel before lifting.
• While lifting, tuck in your chin to keep your neck straight, and keep your back as straight as possible.
• Lift with the leg muscles, which can help protect your back.
• Ask for help with heavy or awkward objects.
• Avoid twisting your body while carrying an object.
• Coordinate and practice team lifting before using it for moving objects.

[1] The NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) lifting equation is a tool to assess and reduce the risk of injury.

Key factors in the NIOSH lifting equation include:

• Horizontal distance (H): Distance of hands from midpoint between ankles
• Starting height of the hands from the ground (Vertical location, V)
• Vertical distance of lifting (D)
• Time between lifts or frequency of lifting (F)
• Angle of the load in relation to the body (A)
• Quality of the grasp or handhold based on the type of handles available (hand-to- load coupling, C)

[3] The NIOSH lifting equation calculates a recommended weight limit (RWL) using the formula: RWL = LC X HM X VM X DM X FM X AM X CM, where LC is the load constant (23 kg). The lower the multiplier factor, the more it contributes to the risk. [2] [3] [4]