Practical Safe Lifting Techniques to Prevent Back Injuries on the Job Site
Practical Safe Lifting Practices That Protect Your Back—and Your Team
Every day on the job, construction tasks bring with them the risk of back, neck, and shoulder injuries. In fact, more than half of back injuries in construction stem from bodily reaction or exertion—especially when lifting improperly. That’s where safe lifting practices come in: simple, reliable steps that build strong habits and keep teams healthy and productive. SCSA
Why Safe Lifting Practices Matter
In fast-paced work environments, rushing through manual tasks can lead to costly injuries. Building safe lifting practices into every routine doesn’t just protect workers—it keeps projects on schedule and saves on injury-related downtime. Over time, these steps should become second nature: stop, think, and lift with care. SCSA
1. Before You Lift — Prep Smart for Safe Lifting Practices
Size Up the Load and Get Help if Needed
If a load seems too heavy or awkward, don’t force it. Ask for help or pick a tool—manual lifting shouldn’t risk injury. SCSA
Use Material Handling Equipment When You Can
Dollies, forklifts, or other equipment help eliminate strain. Use them whenever possible to avoid the stress of manual lifting. SCSA
Coordinate Two-Person Lifts
If two people must lift, they should be roughly the same height. Agree on who leads, how you’ll lift together, and how you’ll lower the load. SCSA
Clear the Path, Stay Safe
Ensure the load is balanced, packed securely, and won’t shift. A clear workplace and solid footing reduce the chance of trips or slips. SCSA
2. While Lifting—Use Safe Lifting Practices to Protect Yourself
Keep the Load Close
Your ability to lift safely drops the farther the object is from your body. Stay close to avoid unnecessary stress on your back. SCSA
Set Yourself in the Right Stance
Plant your feet shoulder-width apart, one slightly ahead of the other for balance. Avoid reaching, bending, or twisting. SCSA
Grip Securely and Brace Your Core
Use a solid palm grip with your fingers. Engage your abdominal muscles before you lift to help support your spine. SCSA
Lift with Your Legs, Not Your Back
Your leg muscles are stronger. Brace your core, maintain the curve in your lower back, and let your legs do the heavy work. SCSA
3. Safe Carrying and Lowering—Wrap Up Safely Every Time
Pivot, Don’t Twist
To turn, step your feet instead of twisting your torso. Twisting under load stresses your spine. SCSA
Lower with Care
Don’t relax too soon—your back is vulnerable when lowering too. Bend with your legs, keep that spinal curve, and let your legs control the descent. SCSA
Quick Reference: 6 Essential Safe Lifting Practices
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 1. Assess | Check weight, shape, and need for help or equipment. |
| 2. Prepare | Clear the path; get footing; secure the load. |
| 3. Stance Up | Feet shoulder-width, one foot forward for balance. |
| 4. Grip & Brace | Use palm grip; activate core muscles before lifting. |
| 5. Lift with Legs | Bend knees, keep back curve, lift gradually. |
| 6. Move & Lower Safely | Pivot feet to move; lower with legs, maintaining posture. |
Building Safe Lifting Practices into Daily Routines
- Toolbox Talks: Begin shifts with quick reminders of these steps.
- Visual Reminders: Post concise “Stop, Think, Lift Right” signage in common areas.
- Lead by Example: Supervisors and teams showing the right technique help others follow.
- Review Regularly: After incidents or almost-misses, revisit procedures—and remind everyone what “safe lifting practices” truly mean.
Final Thoughts: Safe Lifting Practices Are Simple—and Vital
Great workplace safety isn’t about complex systems—it’s built on dependable, repeatable steps. When everyone consistently follows safe lifting practices, it becomes second nature rather than a checklist. Over time, these simple habits save backs, reduce work disruptions, and bring peace of mind to you and your team.
