Course Overview

You bend down to pick up a box when a sharp, sudden pain shoots down your back. Could this have been avoided? The answer is almost certainly: yes! Every day, countless workers risk severe back injuries due to incorrect lifting techniques. But, with the proper knowledge of material handling safety, these risks can be drastically reduced. Our 'Material Handling: Proper Lifting Techniques' course will equip you with the best practices for safe lifting. We’ll cover the basic biomechanics of lifting, planning for a safe lift, how to correctly execute a lift, and the necessary steps for recognizing and responding to potential back injuries. We present this vital information using engaging visuals, allowing you to understand the essential anatomy involved in lifting and how improper techniques can lead to injuries like muscle strains and herniated discs. As we guide you through the planning process, you'll learn how to assess risk factors such as weight, distance, duration, and grip. You'll learn step-by-step how to perform a safe lift, with tips on maintaining proper posture, lifting with your legs (not your back), and how to avoid harmful twisting movements. Finally, you'll learn how to identify the symptoms of back injuries and the appropriate response to them. Importantly, this course also aligns with general guidelines for safe lifting as per the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), standards outlined in 29 CFR 1910.176 and 29 CFR 1926.958, and OSHA's General Duty Clause (29 USC 654 Section 5). By the end of this course, you’ll be well-equipped with the knowledge and best practices to prevent lifting-related injuries in the workplace, fostering a safer environment for everyone. So, whether you’re a seasoned worker seeking to refresh your knowledge, a manager aiming to reduce workplace injuries, or a new employee aiming to master safe lifting habits – this training is for you!