What should you do before you lift a bag full of packages?

What should you do before you lift a bag full of packages?

• A. Test the weight, bend at the knees and use two hands, and ask for a team lift if the weight is above 50 lb
• B. Lift without checking weight
• C. Bend at the waist only
• D. Tilt and twist while lifting

Answer: (A)

Assessing the load and using proper lifting technique protects your back. Before lifting, test the weight to gauge if you can handle it, then bend your knees and keep your back straight as you squat to pick up the bag. Use both hands to secure the load and keep it close to your body for better balance and control. If the weight is about 50 pounds or more, ask for a teammate to help lift it. This approach uses your leg muscles and minimizes strain on the spine, reducing the risk of injury from twisting or rounding the back. Lifting without checking the weight can surprise you with an unmanageable load, bending at the waist only shifts the effort to the back, and tilting or twisting while lifting increases the likelihood of injury.

Assessing the load and using proper lifting technique protects your back. Before lifting, test the weight to gauge if you can handle it, then bend your knees and keep your back straight as you squat to pick up the bag. Use both hands to secure the load and keep it close to your body for better balance and control. If the weight is about 50 pounds or more, ask for a teammate to help lift it. This approach uses your leg muscles and minimizes strain on the spine, reducing the risk of injury from twisting or rounding the back. Lifting without checking the weight can surprise you with an unmanageable load, bending at the waist only shifts the effort to the back, and tilting or twisting while lifting increases the likelihood of injury.