Everybody lifts! Heed that good old advice

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Stock people lift cartons. Office workers often pick up computers and hard drives. Production workers lift heavy parts or boxes of parts. And it doesn't stop there. People lift boxes and containers when they check out at a home improvement store, and there's no end to things that are lifted around the home. Everybody lifts!

Here's what the National Safety Council says that will help you do it without hurting your back:

* Don't lift on slippery surfaces. Get good footing.

* Make sure the space you'll use is clear so you don't bump your head or bump into something or someone.

* Avoid awkward bending, reaching, twisting, and turning while lifting. Lift straight up. Then turn your whole body.

* Lift with your legs by bending your knees so your arms are level with an object. Keep it close to your body.

* Push rather than pull when moving heavy objects.

* Make a smooth lift. Don't jerk it up.

* Know your physical capabilities. If you have any doubt that you can easily lift the object, get someone to help you.

Long Island Safety Articles > Everybody lifts! Heed that good old advice