Before lifting an object, which starting position is recommended?

Before lifting an object, which starting position is recommended?

• A. Kneeling on one knee
• B. Reaching overhead
• C. Squatting position with hips back and knees bent
• D. Standing tall with feet together

Answer: (C)

Start with a squat: hips back and knees bent, feet about shoulder-width apart. This position lets you lower your body by bending the knees and hips while keeping the spine in a neutral, upright alignment. The load should stay close to your center of gravity, which shortens the distance the object travels away from your body and uses the strong muscles of the legs to lift rather than pulling on the back. Keep the object close to your abdomen, chest up, and your head in line with your spine. Push through the legs, not the back, and if you need to move, pivot with your feet rather than twisting your torso. Kneeling on one knee reduces your stability and base of support. Reaching overhead lengthens the lever arm and increases strain on the back and shoulders. Standing tall with feet together offers a narrow base of support and makes it harder to use the legs to lift safely.

Start with a squat: hips back and knees bent, feet about shoulder-width apart. This position lets you lower your body by bending the knees and hips while keeping the spine in a neutral, upright alignment. The load should stay close to your center of gravity, which shortens the distance the object travels away from your body and uses the strong muscles of the legs to lift rather than pulling on the back. Keep the object close to your abdomen, chest up, and your head in line with your spine. Push through the legs, not the back, and if you need to move, pivot with your feet rather than twisting your torso.

Kneeling on one knee reduces your stability and base of support. Reaching overhead lengthens the lever arm and increases strain on the back and shoulders. Standing tall with feet together offers a narrow base of support and makes it harder to use the legs to lift safely.