The spinal cord contains many nerves that are essential to the body's function; lifting objects with improper form can potentially cause damage to the back muscles or spine, making it important to lift objects in an ergonomically sound manner.
Form
The proper form for lifting an object is to bend at your knees while keeping your torso and back straight, grasping the object with your hands, and using your legs to push up and lift the object.
Weight
Before attempting to lift an object, its weight should be assessed; your back can still be injured even when using good form if you attempt to lift a heavy object.
Shape
The object's shape plays a large role in how difficult and safe it is to lift. Objects that are large or hard to grasp may be difficult to lift while keeping your back straight and perpendicular to the ground.
Tools
Heavy or large objects should be lifted with assistance from others or by using a dolly or forklift.
Repetitive Stress
Bending at the back to reach and lift small objects may not pose an immediate threat, but doing so constantly may result in repetitive stress injuries and back soreness.
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