Safe and effective manual handling is essential at sea, as lifting and moving heavy objects is a routine part of daily work.
As part of the Ship-Shape series, demonstrates the correct way to lift and set down items safely, both alone and with a partner, as routine tasks onboard often involve moving heavy, bulky, or awkward objects, making proper manual handling techniques critical to prevent injury.
Key considerations:
- When lifting independently, proper training and consistent attention to lifting form are essential. Practicing safe techniques every time enables seafarers to work longer, stronger, and more safely—while significantly reducing the risk of injury.
- Proper lifting techniques are essential when handling items commonly found in warehouses or on-board ships. While some objects can be lifted alone, having assistance ensures safer handling. Correct technique—lifting with the legs while protecting the back—is critical to prevent injury.
- The proper setup involves bending at the knees, entering a squat position, and positioning the body underneath the load. Items should be lifted using the legs, not the back, and moved safely. When setting objects down, lowering them in a controlled, coordinated manner is important.
- Twisting motions should be avoided, and effort should come from the legs through the heels to reduce the risk of lower back pain, strains, and other injuries.
- Even when lifting independently, proper form requires bending at the knees, lifting through the legs, and keeping the back out of the movement. Controlled placement of the load ensures both safety and efficiency.
- Routine tasks, including walking long distances, checking equipment, and tightening lines, demand full-body engagement and can also serve as physical exercise. These activities require intentional movement, coordinating legs, arms, and core while maintaining focus. Tightening lines, for example, involves using both upper and lower body strength to secure them effectively.
- Stretching is important to maintain flexibility and prevent injury. Effective routines include toe touches, calf stretches, arm mobility exercises, and stretches for the sides of the body.
- Handling heavier equipment, such as mooring lines, requires careful attention to technique. Starting from a stable position, lifting with the legs, and maintaining full-body awareness reduces the risk of injury.
- Consistent practice improves both efficiency and safety, allowing physically demanding tasks to be performed over extended periods while minimizing strain or injury.