As we celebrate our 100th year in business in 2015, we embark on another century of commitment to our policyholders. Our mission is to protect the livelihoods of our policyholders, and, as the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. In keeping with that theme, we’ll celebrate our 100th year in business with 100 important tips to help identify, evaluate and prevent dangers that could result in financial loss or injury in a year-long “Safe with Society” blog series.
“Bend your knees, not your back.”
“Don’t twist as you lift.”
Most of us have heard these nuggets before. It’s good advice, but it seems to go against human nature and common behavior. Here are actions you can take to help you lift properly:
- Get as close to the load as possible. The further the load is from the center line of your body, the greater the strain on your back.
- Avoid picking up heavy objects placed below your knees. Try to store heavier objects above knee level, but below shoulder level.
- Keep your back straight. Don’t bend at the waist when lifting an object.
- Ensure that your travel path is clear. Clear away obstacles before you begin to lift and move.
- Tighten your stomach muscles. This will help keep your spine from twisting.
- Stay in good physical condition. A protruding stomach is an extra load to carry, and adds strain to your lower back.
- Stretch and loosen up before work. A few minutes of stretching can warm up cold muscles.
Click here for a helpful handout on lifting safety to share with your employees.
Our risk control team is available to help facilitate your safety and health efforts. Learn more about this collaborative and consultative partnership, as well as the exclusive safety resources developed to keep your workplace safe and profitable.
