Proper Lifting Techniques for Teams
A safety talk focused on team lifting techniques, including communication, load balance, timing, travel paths, pinch points, uneven weight, and using mechanical help when needed.
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Key Hazards
- Uneven loading between team members
- Dropped loads from poor communication
- Back, shoulder, or hand strains
- Pinch points during lifting or placement
- Trips while carrying large or awkward items
- Blocked visibility during the carry
2–3 Minute Talk Script
Team lifting can reduce the strain of heavy or awkward materials, but only when the lift is planned and coordinated. Without communication, a team lift can create the same hazards as a single-person lift.
Before lifting, the team should discuss the weight, shape, grip points, travel path, and final placement location. Workers should not start until everyone understands the plan.
One person should lead the lift and give clear commands. Simple commands such as lift, stop, turn, lower, and set down help the group move together.
Workers should lift and lower at the same time. If one person moves early, changes direction, or lets go without warning, the load can shift and overload someone else.
The travel path should be checked before the lift begins. Cords, tools, steps, curbs, mud, ice, doorways, uneven ground, and tight corners can create hazards while the team is carrying the load.
Hands and feet should be kept clear of pinch points. Workers should think about where the load will contact walls, racks, trucks, floors, pallets, and equipment during placement.
If the load blocks visibility or is too heavy even for a team, a cart, dolly, forklift, hoist, or other mechanical help should be used.
A safe team lift is controlled from start to finish. Plan together, move together, communicate clearly, and stop if anyone loses grip, balance, or control.
Safety Reminders
- Plan the lift before picking up the load.
- Assign one person to lead commands.
- Lift, move, turn, and lower together.
- Check the travel path before carrying.
- Keep hands and feet clear of pinch points.
- Stop if anyone loses grip or balance.
- Use mechanical help when the team lift is not enough.
Ask the Crew
- Is this load appropriate for a team lift?
- Who will lead the lift and give commands?
- Is the travel path clear?
- Where are the pinch points during placement?
- Would mechanical equipment be safer than lifting by hand?