MMH - Compact Bags

The best way to handle a bag depends on its size, weight, stability, and how far it is to be carried.

When lifting, remember to:

• Straddle the end of the bag.
• Bend the hips and knees.
• Keep the back straight.
• Use a secure grip.
• Grasp the bag with both hands under the closer end. Keep elbows inside the thighs.
• Lean forward, straightening the knees to set the bag upright.
• Readjust the straddle position, moving feet closer to the bag.
• Readjust the grasp, with one hand clasping the bag against the body and the other under it.
• Stand up by thrusting off with the back leg and continuing in an upward and forward direction.
• Lift the bag up with the knee while straightening the body.
• Do not twist your body.
• Put the bag on the shoulder opposite the knee used to thrust the bag up.
• Stabilize the bag on the shoulder.
• Begin moving without bending sideways.

Avoid unloading a bag from the shoulder directly to floor level. Use an intermediate platform or get help from a co-worker.

• Stand close to the platform.
• Place one foot in front of the platform.
• Bend hips and knees.
• Keep the back straight.
• Ease the bag off the shoulder and put it upright on the platform.
• Pull the bag slightly over the edge of the platform.
• Stand close to the platform with the bag touching the chest.
• Clasp the bag against the body with one hand, the other hand holding the bottom of the bag.
• Step back.
• Bend hips and knees, keeping back straight.
• Ease the bag on the floor.

• Avoid lifting from the floor whenever possible.
• Use mechanical assistive devices such as a hand truck, a scissor lift, a load lifter or a pneumatic lifter to raise or lower the load.
• Lift with the help of a co-worker (preferably of similar height, if possible).
• Raise or lower the work surface to suit the height of the worker.
• Wear gloves that are of the proper size for the individual and that have a surface that will increase grip stability.
• Pad the shoulder to provide a cushion.