Avoiding Injury During a Move

 

 

Avoiding Injury during a Move

Its 3:00 in the afternoon, you’re tired, ready to go home, but still have a whole truck to unload. So you get your second wind, run up the ramp and start getting mean with the furniture. Your mind was ready to go, but your body disagreed, so you pull a muscle in your back. Injuries on the job happen frequently and even more so when there is still so much that needs done. Being prepared in these situations can help minimize the risk of injury. Try the following –

Proper Lifting Techniques

  • Always bend at the knees, never at the waist
  • If it can be avoided don’t twist your body in any way, keep your back, arms and legs straight.
  • Keep the items close to your body.
  • Try not to lift things over your head.
  • Position your legs apart and your footing secure.
  • If it can be avoided, push pieces rather than pull.
  • Lift with your legs, not your back.
  • Lift in fluid motion, do not exert by force.
  • Use four wheelers, dollies and ramps.

In the case that there is an injury, having first aid supplies is essential. Always have the following items at your immediate disposal –

  • Band-Aids
  • Wet Towelettes
  • Medical Tape
  • Alcohol Swap
  • Safety Pins
  • Gloves
  • Scissors, or a knife
  • Antiseptic
  • Eye drops
  • Gauze
  • Neosporin

Use your best judgment during an injury. But if it is a worst case scenario, dial 911.