What are the basics of safe lifting?

These are the basic rules of safe lifting that employees must be trained in:

• Size up the load before you lift. Test by lifting one of the corners or pushing. If it’s heavy or feels too clumsy, get a mechanical aid or help from another worker.
• Bend the knees. Note that this item is the single, most important aspect of lifting
• Place your feet close to the object and center yourself over the load.
• Get a good hand-hold.
• Lift straight up, smoothly, and let your legs do the work, not your back!
• Do not twist or turn your body once you have made the lift.
• Make sure beforehand that you have a clear path to carry the load, and a place to set it down.
• Set the load down properly.
• Always push a load on a cart or dolly, do not pull it.
• If it’s a long load, get some help.
• Split the load into several smaller ones when you can.