When heavy loads are to be lifted or carried, auxiliary equipment, such as pallet trucks, forklifts, or grippers, cranes, trolleys or other lifting gear, has to be used. If objects must be lifted or carried manually (see also Limit Loads), the following basic rules should be observed for their appropriate handling:
Back problems are a very frequent cause of sick leave.
- Pick up and carry load with straight back, upright upper body and looking straight ahead (not down on the ground)
- Lift load with knees bent (not from the lower back)
- Carry load as closely to your body as is possible
- Do not rotate your upper body when lifting, carrying or depositing loads
- Carry heavy loads two by two or three by three.
Back problems are a very frequent cause of sick leave.