by Dylan Wirick, MS, LAT, ATC

Work Right has got great imagery of lifting. Graphics that show proper lifting posture – a wide stance, chest up, a neutral spine, and hinging at the hip. And those how-to visuals are important. But let’s be honest: most objects on the job don’t exactly show up looking ready for their photo op. Some look like overgrown Tetris blocks. Others are a mash-up of poor grip options, zero symmetry, and no obvious center of gravity. These are the loads that make you pause and think, “Cool. Cool. Cool. This thing is shaped like regret.”

This is where real preparation kicks in, because awkward objects test more than your strength. They test your awareness, communication, and ability to know when to call in support.

Time To Tag In

A lot of the same general lifting techniques apply to lifting an awkward object. Those include: sizing up the object beforehand, lifting with the legs, avoiding a rounded spine, keeping the object within your Green Zone, and engaging your core. The difference with an awkward-shaped object is that even with proper technique, there are a number of unexpected factors.

For example, the object could have uneven weight distribution. When an object has its weight distributed unevenly, it can become unsafe as it can easily shift your center of gravity causing the object to be dropped or you to fall. The absolute safest way to lift an awkward load is to utilize a two-person lift with good communication. If you are hesitant or unsure of your capability to lift an object, opt for a two-person lift.

Prevention Favors the Prepared

When lifting awkward loads, the following key factors should be considered:

Base of Support: A wide base of support helps to keep yourself balanced. Your feet should be at least shoulder width apart or greater.

Clear Path: This is important for any item but even more important for the awkward ones. We need to have a clear walkway to move the object. In the case of an awkward object, it may obstruct your vision more.

Pay Attention To Anthropometrics: If your coworker is a drastically different height than you, it could pose an ergonomic challenge to hold the item level or keep the weight distributed evenly.

Width of Object: Another common occurrence is that the object is wider than the width of your elbows at your side, causing your elbows to flare out. In this case, and if the object is heavy, a two-person lift is recommended.

Lifting within Comfortable Capability: When lifting an awkward object, the object’s weight should not be a confounding factor. So, stay within the range of what is comfortable or opt for a two-person lift.

Save the awkward situation for the breakroom donut standoff. When it comes to lifting, awkward has no place. The approach should be intentional and safe. No guessing. No regrets.

Dylan Wirick, MS, LAT, ATC || Dylan is a Certified Athletic Trainer with a bachelor’s degree from Hanover College and a master’s degree from the University of Indianapolis. He spent three years working in the secondary school setting before transitioning to the industrial setting, where he served for a year before joining Work Right. Outside of work he enjoys watching basketball, golfing, and hiking with his dogs.

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Be sure to check out our other blogs for further injury prevention education and tips for the industrial athlete from Work Right NW!