Watch Your Back!
Safer Lifting in the Aviation Environment
Most job functions in the aviation environment encounter lifting and/or transporting objects. Airport ramp workers encounter frequent lifting and movement of baggage and cargo. Included, most ticket agents, flight attendants, and pilots also encounter this task.
Passengers are loading more in their bags in an attempt to avoid fees. Therefore, those bags are becoming heavier.
Nearly 25% of all workplace injuries occur from lifting. This is second only to slips, trips, and falls for a cause of loss that results in serious injuries.
80% of back injuries involve the lower back, and 75% of those occurred with lifting.
So – we truly need to “Watch Your Back” in the workplace.
Examine the Load
Look for markings or tags that indicate weight (HEAVY sticker)
Look to see if it would be awkward (e.g., contents unbalanced or able to shift, too big for you to have a good grip, so big that you can not see beyond the load)
Utilize a Team Lift
For heavy loads and awkward shapes, get assistance. Ask a team member to help you lift and place the load.
Utilize Lifting Aides Whenever Possible
The use of carts, conveyors and aircraft loaders is paramount. Try to place the objects or carts as close to the conveyors and loaders as safely possible. Lift and place – rather than lift, carry, and place whenever possible.
Avoid Twisting at the Waist
Always face the load. Stand near the object with feet spread shoulder width apart, with one foot slightly in front of the other to maintain balance. Squat, bending your knees, not your waist, and keep your back as vertical as possible. Lift with your knees – not your back.
Use your feet, not torso, if you must turn when carrying the load; never twist at the waist.
Avoid the temptation to “twist and throw.” This puts enormous pressure on your lower spine. The L4-L5 area of the lower back is the most injured area from improper lifting. The effects are cumulative. What you do repetitively today – will affect you years later.
