Construction work often requires lifting, carrying, pushing and pulling materials throughout the day. The goal isn’t to prove how much you can lift. It’s to get the job done safely and efficiently without putting unnecessary stress on your body.
Working smarter, not harder starts before you ever pick up the load.
Plan the lift first
Before lifting, take a moment to plan where the material is going and make sure your path is clear. Remove or avoid debris, cords, uneven surfaces and other hazards that could create a problem while carrying the load.
If a load is heavy, awkward or difficult to handle, don’t try to muscle through it. Ask a coworker for help or use mechanical equipment such as a cart, dolly, forklift, hoist or material lift when appropriate.
Use proper lifting techniques
Get as close to the material as possible before lifting. Position your feet for good balance, bend your knees and keep the load close to your body.
Lift smoothly using your legs and avoid twisting your back while carrying. If you need to change direction, move your feet instead of twisting your torso.
Consider more than the weight
A load doesn’t have to be extremely heavy to be difficult or dangerous to handle. Long, bulky, unstable or slippery materials can create additional challenges and may be harder to control.
Test the load before committing to the lift and make sure you have a secure grip. If the material is difficult to control, stop and determine whether you need assistance or a different method for moving it.
Communicate when lifting with a coworker
When two or more workers are moving a material together, communication is essential. Before you move, agree on commands such as “lift,” “walk” and “lower.”
Make sure everyone understands the plan and knows where the load is going. Clear communication helps workers move together and reduces the chance of unexpected movements.
Don’t let production pressure influence a lifting decision
When you’re trying to keep a project moving, it can be tempting to rush through a lift or handle a load on your own. But taking an extra minute to plan the lift, get assistance or use the right equipment can help prevent an injury that could keep you off the job for weeks.
Why healthy habits matter
Protecting your body on the job is about making smart decisions throughout the workday. Planning ahead, using proper techniques, asking for help and choosing the right equipment can reduce unnecessary strain and help you work more safely.
A few extra seconds to approach a task the right way can make a difference. Work smarter, protect your body and get the job done safely.
Prioritize safety at all times
Questions or concerns about your safety on the job? Please call your local PRST team. You can also learn more about our safety policies on our Tradesperson Resource Center.
