Manual Lifting and Material Handling

Why it matters

Back injuries end more construction careers than any other injury type.

Key points

• Plan the lift: route clear, destination ready, grip solid.
• Lift with legs, load close to the body, no twisting - move your feet instead.
• Two-person lift or mechanical help for anything awkward or over ~50 lbs (23 kg).
• Use carts, dollies, and hoists - the strongest back is the one that is spared.
• Stretch before heavy work; fatigue is when backs get hurt.

Discussion

What is the heaviest material moving today, and how is it getting there?