Lifting, Pulling, Holding, & Handling Materials Hazards

A big part of many construction jobs is lifting, carrying, holding, or pulling loads of materials. While many methods and tools exist for easing the load on a worker, sometimes there is no way around picking something up and carrying it. You may have to shift bulky bags of concrete, carry mortar buckets, push heavy carts, or move equipment.

These types of tasks can put you at risk for back injury. Over time, you may weaken the disks in your spine, leading to ruptures and pain. Even carrying lighter loads can put you at risk for sore arms, shoulders, and neck muscles. Repeatedly lifting heavy materials over your head can result in tendinitis, bursitis, or tension neck syndrome.

Finally, your arms, hands, and wrists may be at risk if you must carry items that have sharp edges or that are awkward to grip and hold.

To learn more about Construction Ergonomics visit our Construction Ergonomics Online Training web page.