Lifting Heavy Loads

Animal care operations involve a number of activities that can cause physical strain when handling and moving heavy objects (including animals).

Use proper lifting techniques to help prevent injuries to your back and shoulders when moving, animals, cages bags of feed etc.

Practice the following safe lifting methods:

• Assess where you can get a firm grip on the load
• Assess the overall size and shape
• Assess weight of the load
• Never bend from the waist and lift a load from the ground – bend your knees and keep your back straight.
• You can have one foot slightly in front of the other for increased stability
• Keep the load close to your body
• Never attempt to lift anything over 20kg without assistance of another person, or a team or mechanical device if over 55kg
• If you need to change direction while carrying an object, move your feet around and don’t strain your back
• Ensure you have a clear view of what’s ahead of you
• Ask someone for assistance with large or heavy items or items over 15-20kg