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Safe Lifting Techniques

Ergonomics | 10-15 min

Summary

Back injuries are the most common workplace injury, accounting for nearly 20% of all injuries and illnesses, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting that back injuries cause workers to miss an average of 12 days of work. The direct and indirect costs of back injuries exceed $100 billion annually in the United States. Most of these injuries are preventable with proper lifting techniques and smart work practices.

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Key Points to Cover

  • Plan your lift before starting
  • Keep the load close to your body
  • Bend at the knees, not the waist
  • Avoid twisting while lifting
  • Ask for help with heavy or awkward loads

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should this safety talk take?

Plan for about 10-15 min, with extra time for questions and site-specific examples.

Can I tailor the discussion to my workplace?

Yes. Use the key points as a starting place and connect them to the tasks, equipment, and procedures your team uses.

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