#safe_t_mark

Lifting injuries are one of the most common types of workplace injuries. They can cause pain, disability, and even death. However, most lifting injuries can be prevented by using proper lifting techniques.

Here are some tips for safe lifting:

Assess the load. Before you lift anything, take a moment to assess the weight and size of the load. If it is too heavy or too bulky to lift safely, get help.

Plan your lift. Be sure to have a clear path to where you are going to put the load. Avoid lifting over obstacles or in tight spaces.

Use your legs, not your back. Bend your knees and squat down to lift the load. Keep your back straight and your core engaged.

Lift with a smooth, steady motion. Don't jerk or heave the load.

Keep the load close to your body. This will help you to maintain your balance and control.

Avoid twisting or turning while lifting.

Put the load down carefully. Bend your knees and squat down to put the load down.

Here are some additional tips for safe lifting:

Get help when needed. Don't be afraid to ask for help from a coworker or supervisor if you need to lift a heavy object.

Use mechanical lifting devices whenever possible. Mechanical lifting devices, such as forklifts and hoists, can help to reduce the risk of lifting injuries.

Take breaks. If you are lifting heavy objects on a regular basis, be sure to take breaks to rest your back and muscles.

If possible, store heavier objects at waist height, much easier to lift instead of lifting from ground up.

Here are some common lifting mistakes to avoid:

Lifting too much weight. This is the most common lifting mistake. If you are unsure how much weight you can safely lift, ask for help.

Lifting awkwardly. This can include lifting objects that are too large or too bulky to lift safely or lifting objects from awkward positions.

Twisting or turning while lifting. This can put a strain on your back and lead to injury.

Lifting with your back instead of your legs. This is another common lifting mistake that can lead to back injuries.

Here are some tips for lifting specific types of objects:

Lifting boxes: When lifting boxes, be sure to keep your back straight and your core engaged. Lift with your legs and keep the box close to your body.

Lifting heavy objects from the floor: When lifting heavy objects from the floor, squat down with your knees and hips bent. Keep your back straight and your core engaged. Lift with your legs and keep the object close to your body.

Lifting objects above shoulder height: When lifting objects above shoulder height, be sure to use both arms and keep your back straight. Avoid twisting or turning while lifting.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent lifting injuries and keep yourself safe at work.

Additional Tips

Be aware of your surroundings. Make sure that you have a clear path to where you are going to put the load. Avoid lifting over obstacles or in tight spaces.

Wear proper footwear. Proper footwear can help to improve your balance and reduce the risk of slipping and falling.

Listen to your body. If you feel any pain, stop lifting and rest.

Slips, trips, and falls are the leading cause of nonfatal injuries in the United States, accounting for over 8 million emergency department visits and 25,000 deaths each year. They can happen to anyone, of any age, but they are more common among older adults and people with disabilities.

What is the difference between a slip, trip, and fall?

A slip occurs when you lose your footing due to a slippery surface.

A trip occurs when you catch your foot on something, such as a cord, rug, or uneven surface.

A fall is the act of coming down to the ground from a standing position.

What are the common causes of slips, trips, and falls?

Slippery surfaces: This can include wet floors, icy sidewalks, snow-covered walkways, and oily floors.

Clutter: Loose cords, wires, rugs, and other objects can create tripping hazards.

Uneven surfaces: Holes in the ground, cracked pavement, and uneven steps can also cause trips and falls.

Poor lighting: Poor lighting can make it difficult to see hazards on the ground.

Improper footwear: Wearing inappropriate footwear, such as high heels or flip-flops, can increase your risk of slipping or tripping.

What are the common injuries from slips, trips, and falls?

Slips, trips, and falls can cause a variety of injuries, including:

Sprains and strains

Fractures

Head injuries

Cuts and bruises

Back injuries

Hip injuries.

Shoulder injuries

How to prevent slips, trips, and falls

There are several things you can do to prevent slips, trips, and falls, both at home and in public places:

At home:

Keep floors clean and dry.

Remove clutter from walkways.

Repair uneven surfaces.

Install grab bars in bathrooms and showers.

Use non-slip rugs and mats.

Wear appropriate footwear, such as shoes with non-slip soles.

Improve lighting in dark areas.

In public places:

Be aware of your surroundings and watch for hazards.

Use handrails when walking up and down steps.

Walk carefully on slippery surfaces.

Be especially cautious in winter weather.

What to do if you slip, trip, and fall

If you slip, trip, and fall, try to protect yourself from further injury by tucking your head in and rolling onto your side. If you are unable to get up on your own, call for help.

If you are injured in a slip, trip, and fall, see a doctor right away to get checked out. Even if you don't think you are seriously injured, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any internal injuries.

Additional tips for preventing slips, trips, and falls.

Be aware of your surroundings and watch for hazards.

Walk carefully, especially on slippery surfaces.

Use handrails when walking up and down steps.

Keep your body weight centered over your feet.

Avoid carrying heavy loads.

Wear appropriate footwear.

If you are elderly or have a disability, consider using a cane or walker for added stability.

Slips, trips, and falls at work.

Slips, trips, and falls are also a common cause of workplace injuries. Employers have a responsibility to provide a safe work environment for their employees, including taking steps to prevent slips, trips, and falls.

Employers can help prevent slips, trips, and falls at work by:

Keeping floors clean and dry.

Removing clutter from walkways.

Repairing uneven surfaces.

Installing grab bars in bathrooms and showers.

Using non-slip rugs and mats.

Improving lighting in dark areas.

Training employees on how to prevent slips, trips, and falls.

Slips, trips, and falls and older adults.

Older adults are at an increased risk of slips, trips, and falls due to several factors, including:

Decreased balance and coordination

Muscle weakness

Vision problems

Medications that can cause dizziness or drowsiness.

Older adults can reduce their risk of slips, trips, and falls by following the tips above, as well as by taking the following additional steps:

Get regular vision and hearing checks.

Ask your doctor about any medications that may be causing dizziness or drowsiness.

Exercise regularly to improve your balance and coordination.

Use a cane or walker for added stability if needed.

Conclusion

Slips, trips, and falls are a serious public health problem, especially for older adults. However, there are a few things that individuals and communities can do to prevent slips, trips, and falls.

By following the tips above, you can help keep yourself and your loved ones safe from slips, trips, and falls.

Additional resources

National Institute on Aging: Falls Prevention

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Slips, Trips, and Falls