Kinetic lifting is a manual handling technique used in many fields. It is particularly common in workplaces where workers lift and shift heavy objects by hand rather than using machines. This technique is mainly used in warehouses, construction sites, and daily routines.
This guide explains kinetic lifting, including its principles, risk assessment, useful tips, and common injuries associated with heavy lifting. Understanding the kinetic lifting technique ensures that you work effectively and the risk of injury is minimised.
What is Manual Handling and Kinetic Lifting Method?
Manual handling is the process of lifting loads and items without the help of machines. Professionals create methods to minimise the threat of injuries related to manual handling; this method is called the kinetic lifting method.
The kinetic lifting technique makes sure that the weight is lifted safely and effectively without injury. This process provides proper guidance for safe lifting of heavy items while maintaining proper posture, using elbows and arms for lifting. It helps lower the likelihood of spinal and muscular injuries.
Kinetic Method of Lifting
Bend at the Knees
The weight of the load must be equal to the carrying capacity of the worker. Before lifting the load, you must position your body directly towards the load and point your face or body to the planned direction. The feet are placed about a hip distance apart, one foot in front of the body. Now, kneel down and gently lower your body as close as you can while remaining calm and balanced. Maintain a straight back from hips to shoulders, avoiding any tilting.
Grasp the Load
You can tilt one hand if needed so that the other hand can hold the load firmly from the corner closest to the body. The free hand then holds the furthest corner of the load and pulls the object tightly against your chest or body. The arm should be locked tightly to enhance load support.
Lift, Using the Legs
The load can be lifted using the legs to move the body and load upwards simultaneously. Movements should be smooth and natural, helping you avoid jerking, twisting, or straining. It keeps the back and head in a natural position during the lifting process. This is attained by looking straight ahead when the legs are straightened rather than looking at the load.
Carrying the Load
The load must be carried firmly into the body to its place. When you are holding a heavy item, aligning it with your own body makes it easier to lift naturally. It is vital to look around with the load to prevent any obstacles. When the weight exceeds the worker’s capacity, it is important to lean back on the hips with the load to move your body straight up without leaning or bending, then straighten the legs to lift the load.
Changing Grip
When you are carrying the load, do not change the grip. You have to put the load on a stable surface first, then change the grip if necessary.
Team lifting
When a large weight needs to be moved, assistance is required. The assistant must be the same height to prevent unbalancing or uneven weight distribution during carrying loads. Coordination in the team is crucial in team lifting. One person needs to give directions during the process of lifting, carrying, and lowering. Some lifting tools are designed to help workers do their tasks easily and quickly and minimises the risk of accidents.
Assessing Risk for Manual Handling
There are many factors that need to be considered when doing manual handling to prevent accidents or injuries.
Analyse the Task
Before starting manual handling, it is important to analyse and properly streamline your activity. It includes the time period of the task, times to pause, and frequency of the task. Furthermore, check your position and route when transferring the object.
Check the Load
Evaluate all the features of the load you are transferring, including its size, weight, and durability. Additionally, understand what material is inside the containers to avoid any accident risks.
Assess the Abilities
Make sure that the person who is transferring is capable of performing the task. It is important to consider all the factors that maximise the injury risk, like pre-existing health problems, old wounds, or their level of training, to prevent accidents.
Environmental Factors
Analysing environmental factors is also important for safety. This includes evaluating floor conditions, lighting, ramps, stairs, and other difficulties that may increase the threat of accidents.
Useful Tips for Kinetic Lifting
There are many useful tips that make your complex tasks easier. It is important to keep these tips in mind when manually handling objects:
- It is crucial to thoroughly measure the load condition and its features when planning a kinetic lift.
- Stand shoulder-width apart with a straight spine, close to the item. Slightly move your stronger foot forward to lift more effectively.
- When you bend on your knees, push your hips back and avoid bending over the object.
- You must lift the load with your legs rather than lifting with your back.
- When you carry the item, keep it closer to your body, just around your waist.
Common Injuries Associated with Heavy Lifting
When manual lifting is not done with proper techniques, it can cause many injuries. Some of these injuries are as follows:
- Tendinitis
- Knee injuries
- Elbow injuries
- Muscle strain
- Spinal injuries
- Slipped disk
- Muscle pull
- Back sprains
Bottom Line!
When heavy objects are lifted or shifted, the kinetic lifting technique is more efficient for handling them. Understanding the specialised method helps ensure that you can move the object safely and comfortably. Before lifting, evaluate the object and keep it close to your body. When the weight is beyond your capacity to lift, ask for help as it is unsafe to handle alone. It is important to move the object safely to avoid loss or injury.