Toolbox Talk: Safe Lifting

Before you start

Bring a box or a typical load from the site so you can demonstrate a good lift.

Read this to your crew

Back and shoulder strains from lifting are among the most common workplace injuries. They often build up over time, then a single awkward lift finishes the job.

Today we will talk about how to lift smarter and when not to lift at all.

Key points

Plan the lift. Check the weight, your path and where the load is going before you pick it up.
Use equipment first. Carts, dollies, hoists and lift tables beat lifting by hand. Get help or a team lift for heavy or awkward loads.
Keep it close. Hold the load close to your body, between mid-thigh and chest height.
Lift with your legs. Bend your knees, keep your back straight and lift smoothly without jerking.
Do not twist. Turn by moving your feet, not your back.

Ask the crew

Which lifts here are the heaviest or most awkward?
Where could we use a cart, hoist or lift table instead?
Where are materials stored too high or too low?

Picture this

A stocker lifts a 50-pound case off the floor and twists to put it on a high shelf, all in one motion. She feels a sharp pain in her lower back and is off work for two weeks. Using a step stool, keeping the box close and turning her feet would have spared her back.

Print this page to use the sign-in sheet, or skip the paper and record attendance digitally in SafetyIQ.

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Talk leader: ______________ Date: ______________ Site: ______________