Tips For Lifting Boxes Safely

Move day can be difficult enough; don’t make it worse by doing your back in!

There are general guidelines – or maximum weights – for men and women. If applying these, men shouldn’t attempt to lift anything heavier than 25kg and a woman’s maximum limit is 16kg.

If in any doubt, you should carry out a risk assessment before lifting, since the safe limit depends on a wide range of variables such as the individual involved, the height that you will be lifting and the distance you will be required to carry the object.

Stand directly in front of the item you wish to lift.
Check if the item has handles which you could use.
Know where you are taking the object before you begin.
Position your feet evenly (shoulder width apart).
Keep your back straight and stand up tall.
Tighten your stomach muscles.
Squat to the floor by bending your knees – DO NOT move your upper body.
Take hold of the object firmly with both hands.
Distribute the weight evenly – make sure you are not unbalanced.
Keeping the object close to your body, begin to stand up by straightening your legs
(this will use your leg muscles and shouldn’t put strain on other areas).
Stand up slowly. Do not move quickly or jerk when doing this .
You can now walk with the object, but be careful not to twist your body unnecessarily.
Take small steps if possible.
If you are carrying a large object which restricts your view, ask if someone can guide
you. This will prevent you from tripping or bumping into objects.
When placing the item down, bend your legs.
Remember to keep your back straight as you bend down again.
Be careful to lower each side of the object to the floor separately – this will avoid
trapping your fingers.