How to Train in Ergonomic Lifting Techniques

Ergonomic training teaches employees to safely perform specific job tasks. Workplace-safety training reduces employee injuries and the development of musculoskeletal disorders. In addition, cost associated with treatment of these injuries is decreased. Ergonomic lifting techniques are an important part of employee safety training. The Occupational Safety & Health Administration, or OSHA, recommends formal instruction for employee safety and provides guidelines for training employees in ergonomic lifting techniques.

Instructions

• 1

  Instruct employees in basic anatomy including the spine, spinal nerves and core muscles that maintain the back in proper alignment. Using a skeleton model, simulate the movement of the spine to demonstrate spinal nerve compression with bending at the waist.

• 2

  Present work-site injury cases that involve poor lifting techniques. Discuss the factors that caused the injury and ways it could be prevented.

• 3

  Demonstrate proper lifting technique. To lift an item off the floor, squat down, bring the object close to your body and return to a standing position. If bending cannot be avoided, bend forward at the hips, stand on one leg and bring the opposite leg straight out behind you to maintain a neutral spine. At a waist height surface, slide the item toward your body before lifting.

• 4

  Allow time for employees to practice lifting techniques. Provide feedback and correction as needed. Administer a short written quiz to assess learning at the end of the class. Repeat training in ergonomic lifting techniques each year.