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Large and Heavy Sacks

How should heavy large sacks be lifted?
How should bulky sacks be lifted?
How should a "two-person lift and stack" be done?


How should heavy large sacks be lifted?

Lift heavy and large sacks in two stages using an intermediate platform.

When lifting, remember to:

  • Straddle the end of the sack.
  • Bend the hips and knees.
  • Keep the back straight.
  • Grasp the bag with both hands under the end closest to you. Keep elbows inside the thighs.
  • Lean forward and straighten the knees to set the bag upright.
  • Move your feet closer to the sack.
  • Squat with the sack between the thighs with one foot flat on the floor in front of the other.
  • Grasp with elbow inside the thighs. With one hand clasp the sack against the body and the other hand is holding the bottom of the sack.
  • Stand up in one smooth motion.
  • Place the sack upright on the platform.
  • Place one foot in front of the other with the front foot along side of the platform.
  • Bend the hips and knees and keep the back straight.
  • Put one shoulder against the sack.
  • Readjust your grasp.
  • Lean the sack on the shoulder.
  • Stand up and straighten the hips and knees.


How should bulky sacks be lifted?

Bulkier sacks are easier to carry on your back. Lift onto your back from a platform as described above.

  • Move the sack to the edge of the platform.
  • Put your back against the sack.
  • Grasp with both hands on the upper corners of the sack.
  • Ease the sack onto the back, bending hips and knees before taking the weight.
  • Keep the back straight.
  • Stand up and straighten the hips and knees.
  • Stabilize the sack.
  • Move away without bending sideways.


How should a "two-person lift and stack" be done?

  • Position one person on either side of the sack.
  • Squat with one foot balancing behind the sack.
  • Keep back straight.
  • Grasp with the outer and on the upper corner, the other holding the bottom of the sack.
  • On one person's command:
  • Stand up and straighten the hips and knees.
  • Move towards the stack
  • Put the sack on the stack

Document last updated on August 27, 2002

Copyright ©1997-2008 Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety


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