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SAFE

LIFTING

Over half of all injuries at Rent-A-Center involve 5. Lift the object, using only your legs – your

back is straight, so it’s not straining. Bring
lifting. Twenty-five percent involve a coworker who the object close to your body, and carefully take
has only been on the job a few weeks. We’ve broken it to its destination. Just because you cleared the
down the basic steps below, followed by some path a moment ago, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t
advanced techniques and other tools. Be sure you be aware of your surroundings; always be wary of
practice these before you head out on a delivery – things in your path when you’re carrying something.
you don’t want to be another statistic!

HOW TO LIFT SAFELY 6. Set down the object by bringing your feet WELCOME & ORIENTATION / TRAINING ROADMAP

1. First, to practice a safe lifting technique, bending only with your knees, slowly lower the
about shoulder-width apart again. Then,

object down. Your back should be straight, again,
you’ll need something to lift. Then assess
the situation; is your object: Big? Small? Heavy? you never want to bend over, or strain with your
back to lift or lower.
Awkwardly shaped?
This is a great time to test the weight of the object
– lift it slightly, using only your legs. Is it too heavy?
Should you call someone to help you? If you can lift
it on your own, continue. If not, call someone to help
you using the advanced Partner Lifting technique,
and then continue.
2. Now, where are you taking this

object? Clear a path to the location
you plan on taking it. A clear path will keep you
from tripping while you’re carrying something
– a potentially serious fall and injury can be
avoided by a simple path inspection.
3. Stand in front of the object. Your feet

should be shoulder-width apart.
4. Bend your knees to squatting

position, keeping your back straight.
Pay attention to your back. Are you stooped
over? Reaching over the object? Don’t twist,
stoop or reach - keep your back straight.

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