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Moving Boxes Guide |
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GUIDE TO BACK SAFETY AND PROPER LIFTING
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According to the Bureau
of Labor Statistics (BLS),
more than one million workers
suffer back injuries each year, with back injuries accounting
for one out of every five workplace injuries and illnesses.
This problem produces pain and discomfort, and can have a dramatic
change on your productivity and lifestyle. A BLS survey shows
that four out of five of these injuries were to the lower back,
and that three out of four occurred while lifting. This survey
shows the importance of reducing back injuries caused by lifting.
Although no approach has completely eliminated such injuries,
a substantial portion could be prevented by incorporating effective
lifting techniques.
- Utilize lifting techniques that place minimum stress on the lower back.
- Pack smaller more compact boxes as opposed to heavy large boxes.
- Large packing boxes are great for comforters, pillows stuffed animals etc.
- Use book boxes for the heavy smaller items.
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How to Lift Safely
Using proper lifting techniques can help prevent downtime due to avoidable back injuries. With a little practice, precautionary methods such as these can become good daily habits that could help prevent back injuries when moving and in your daily routine.
- Stand close to the load with your feet spread apart about shoulder width, with one foot slightly in front of the other for balance.
- Squat down bending at the knees (not your waist). Tuck your chin while keeping your back as vertical as possible.
- Get a firm grasp of the object before beginning the lift
- Begin slowly lifting with your LEGS by straightening them. Never twist your body during this step.
- Once the lift is complete, keep the object as close to the body as possible. As the load's center of gravity moves away from the body, there is a dramatic increase in stress to the lumbar region of the back.
If you must turn while carrying the load, turn using your feet-not your torso.
To place the object below the level of your waist, follow the same procedures in reverse order.
Remember, keep your back as vertical as possible and bend at the knees.
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Commonly Asked Questions
Q. When carrying a load, is it okay to turn or twist my body as long as I turn with my torso?
A. No. You should try to minimize any turning or twisting, but if you must turn while carrying the load, turn using your feet.
Q. Are there any guidelines I can follow to help assess what size boxes I should be using for my move?
A. Yes. To help in the evaluation process, refer to www.MovingBoxguy.com sizes and uses box chart.
Q. Will wearing a back support belt increase my maximum lifting potential?
A. No. Manufacturers of back support belts do not claim they increase maximum lifting potential. Your time now is for moving safely not testing your maximum lifting potential. Pack heavier items in small to medium size boxes. Lighter bulkier items can go in large boxes and XL boxes.
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USEFUL LINKS
Here is a list of links to moving resources
on the web that you may find useful. Some of these resources
focus on helping you plan your move.
If you have a link you feel may be useful, send it to us at
Moving
Overview Checklist
Moving
Checklist Generator
Handling
the emotional side of moving
United
States Postal Office - Change of Address
National
Public School and School District Locator
Profiles
of U.S. cities |
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