Lift Smart, Work Strong: Back Safety on the Job

For builders, a strong back is one of your most valuable tools, but it’s also one of the most vulnerable. When your daily work routine regularly requires manual labor, lifting safety is crucial. Without the right techniques and awareness, even experienced workers can suffer injuries that sideline them for weeks or months.

Here are some key reminders for lifting and back safety on the job site.

1. Plan Before You Lift

Before picking up any load, take a moment to assess it. Ask yourself: How heavy is it? Is it awkward or unevenly shaped? Do I have a clear path to where I’m going?

Whenever possible, use mechanical aids like dollies, forklifts or lifting straps. Asking for help or taking a few extra minutes to prepare isn’t a slowdown. It’s injury prevention.

2. Lift With Your Legs, Not Your Back

Most people know this one, but it’s a cornerstone of safe lifting. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart, bend at your knees and tighten your core muscles. 

Ensure that you keep the object close to your body and avoid twisting or jerking while lifting. Smooth, controlled movements protect your spine and reduce strain on muscles and ligaments.

3. Watch Your Posture Throughout the Day

Many back injuries don’t result from a single heavy lift. They develop slowly from repetitive strain or poor posture.

When working on low surfaces, use adjustable work stands or take breaks to stretch and reset your posture. Over time, these small habits can make a significant difference in maintaining your back health.

4. Know When to Get Help

Even the toughest workers have limits. If something feels too heavy or awkward to lift alone, don’t risk it. Team lifts and proper equipment are there for a reason. Taking shortcuts can lead you down a long road of recovery.

5. Build a Culture of Safety

Safety is a team effort. Supervisors should make sure lifting aids are available and in good working order. Crews should look out for one another, reminding coworkers to lift properly and share the load when needed.

We believe safety isn’t just a checklist — it’s a mindset. By building safer habits and encouraging each other to work with care, South Carolina’s builders can protect their greatest asset: their people.

Stay Strong With Back Safety

Your back supports your work — and SCHBSIF supports you. Through safety training, on-site consultations and member resources, we’re here to help members reduce injuries, control costs and keep their teams productive and healthy.

Because when our builders stay safe, our entire industry grows stronger.