Which technique is recommended for safe lifting?

Which technique is recommended for safe lifting?

• A. Squat to lift and lower
• B. Bend at the waist and lift with the back
• C. Lift with the arms only
• D. Lean forward and lift

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that safe lifting relies on using the legs, not the back, and keeping the load close to your body. Squatting to lift and lower engages the strongest muscles in your legs (knees and hips) and lets you maintain a straight, neutral spine. By bending at the hips and knees rather than at the waist, you reduce the bending moment and shear forces on the spine, which lowers the risk of back strain or injury. Stand close to the object, feet shoulder‑width apart, grip it securely, keep the back straight and core tight, and rise by pushing through the heels and straightening the hips and knees. Lower the load by reversing the motion in a controlled way. Lifting with the back, lifting with the arms only, or leaning forward places more stress on the spine and can lead to injury, which is why those approaches are not recommended.

The main idea is that safe lifting relies on using the legs, not the back, and keeping the load close to your body. Squatting to lift and lower engages the strongest muscles in your legs (knees and hips) and lets you maintain a straight, neutral spine. By bending at the hips and knees rather than at the waist, you reduce the bending moment and shear forces on the spine, which lowers the risk of back strain or injury. Stand close to the object, feet shoulder‑width apart, grip it securely, keep the back straight and core tight, and rise by pushing through the heels and straightening the hips and knees. Lower the load by reversing the motion in a controlled way. Lifting with the back, lifting with the arms only, or leaning forward places more stress on the spine and can lead to injury, which is why those approaches are not recommended.