MMH – Large and Heavy Sacks Fact Sheets

HOW SHOULD HEAVY LARGE SACKS BE LIFTED?

Lift heavy and large sacks in two stages using an intermediate platform.

When lifting, remember to:

  • Straddle the end of the sack.
  • Bend the hips and knees.
  • Keep the back straight.
  • Don’t stoop.
  • Grasp the bag with both hands under the end closest to you. Keep elbows inside the thighs.
  • Lean forward and straighten the knees to set the bag upright.
  • Move your feet closer to the sack.
  • Squat with the sack between the thighs with one foot flat on the floor in front of the other.
  • Grasp the sack with your elbow inside the thighs. With one hand clasp the sack against your body and use your other hand to hold the bottom of the sack.
  • Stand up in one smooth motion.
  • Place the sack upright on the platform.
  • Place one foot in front of the other with the front foot along side of the platform.
  • Bend the hips and knees and keep the back straight.
  • Put one shoulder against the sack.
  • Readjust your grasp.
  • Lean the sack against your shoulder.
  • Stand up and straighten the hips and knees.
  • Make sure your hands and feet are clear when putting the load down. 

Lifting a heavy sack

How should bulky sacks be lifted?

Bulkier sacks are easier to carry on your back. Lift the sack onto your back from a platform as described below.

  • Move the sack to the edge of the platform.
  • Put your back against the sack.
  • Grasp the sack with both hands on the upper corners of the sack.
  • Ease the sack onto your back, bending your hips and knees before taking the weight.
  • Keep your back straight.
  • Stand up and straighten your hips and knees.
  • Stabilize the sack.
  • Move away without bending sideways.

Lifting a bulky sack

How should a “two-person lift and stack” be done?

  • Position one person on either side of the sack.
  • Squat with one foot balancing behind the sack.
  • Keep your back straight.
  • Hold the bottom of the sack with your closer hand and grasp the upper corner with your outer hand.
  • On one person’s command, both people:
    • Stand up and straighten their hips and knees.
    • Move towards the stack.
    • Put the sack on the stack.

Two person lift and stack

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