Back Safety for Grounds Personnel

1. Body Mechanics
   
   
   1. Warm-ups, exercises
      
      
   2. Importance of stance (wide, solid footing)
      
      
   3. Test before lifting
      
      
   4. Tighten abs, keep back straight, lift w/ legs, keep load close to body, don't twist, squat when putting load down
   
   
2. Lifting Above Shoulders
   
   
   1. Test before lifting
      
      
   2. Use ladder/stool so you don't over-extend
      
      
   3. Clear area , pick place to put load down before lifting
      
      
   4. Use proper body mechanics to lift
   
   
3. Lifting & Turning
   
   
   1. Move body as a single unit
      
      
   2. Take small steps w/ load close to body
      
      
   3. Pivot your feet, don't twist your body
   
   
4. Pushing Loads
   
   
   1. Only pull if absolutely necessary
      
      
   2. Keep load & elbows close to body, don't use arms to push
      
      
   3. Use body weight, not feet
   
   
5. Two Person Lift
   
   
   1. Designate one person to direct the lift, try to lift w/someone of same height
      
      
   2. Keep load at same level
      
      
   3. Raise load at same time
   
   
6. Mechanical Devices
   
   
   1. Carts, dollys, etc
      
      
   2. Push with legs & upper body
      
      
   3. Rely on leverage
   
   
7. Common Injuries
   
   
   1. Over Flexion - caused by bending too far forward
      
      
   2. Avoid lifting quickly/jerking back
      
      
   3. Stress can cause tension throughout body
      
      
   4. Exercise and eat a well balanced diet