Safe Lifting & Ergonomics

Back injuries, strains and sprains are the most common injuries in construction and warehousing. They come from heavy lifting, awkward postures, repetitive motion and fatigue, and they can end careers.

• Construction
• General Industry

Before you lift

• Can a machine do it? Use carts, dollies, hoists, forklifts or material lifts.
• How heavy is it? Test by tipping one corner. Get help for heavy or awkward loads.
• Is the path clear? Plan where you’re going and where you’ll set it down.
• Can it be split into smaller loads, or ordered in lighter packages?

How to lift

1. Stand close to the load with feet shoulder-width apart.
2. Squat by bending your knees and hips. Keep your back straight and chest up.
3. Get a firm grip and tighten your stomach muscles.
4. Lift smoothly with your legs. Don’t jerk.
5. Keep the load close to your body, between your knees and shoulders (the “power zone”).
6. Turn with your feet, not your back. Don’t twist.
7. Set it down the same way, in reverse.

Team lifts

• Pick partners of similar height, and choose one person to call the moves.
• Lift, move and set down together on a count.

Other ergonomic risks

• Overhead work (drilling into ceilings): use lifts or drill stands to bring work closer.
• Kneeling and floor work: use knee pads and stand-up tools.
• Repetitive motions: rotate tasks, use tools with good grips, take micro-breaks.
• Vibration: see Hand-Arm Vibration.

Last updated: October 1, 2026