Material Handling · 2–5 min toolbox talk
Avoiding Injury When Carrying Boxes
A safety talk on preventing strains and dropped loads while carrying boxes or packages.
Use this printed script for your tailgate or toolbox talk. Read through the hazards, script, and questions with your crew.
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“Avoiding Injury When Carrying Boxes”
Key Hazards
- Back strain from poor lifting technique
- Trips from obstructed vision
- Dropping heavy or unstable boxes
2–3 Minute Talk Script
Avoiding injury when carrying boxes is important for warehouse workers, office staff, delivery personnel, and maintenance teams. Boxes vary in weight and can hide uneven loads.
Workers should test the weight of a box before lifting, hold it close to the body, and avoid lifting above shoulder level.
Carrying boxes can block the worker's view, increasing trip risks. Workers should ask for assistance when carrying large or awkward items.
Communication prevents incidents when multiple people are handling the same load or navigating tight spaces.
Safety Reminders
- Test box weight before lifting.
- Keep boxes close to your body.
- Ask for help with bulky loads.
- Maintain a clear path before carrying.
Ask the Crew
- Do we need team lifting for today's deliveries?
- Are walkways clear for carrying loads?