Perform Lifting & Back Safety Checks using eAuditor

Lifting & Back Safety Checks involve assessing proper lifting techniques, ergonomic practices, and workplace conditions to prevent musculoskeletal injuries and ensure employee well-being. These checks focus on posture, load handling, use of lifting aids, and adherence to safety protocols.

Performing Lifting & Back Safety Checks using eAuditor ensures a comprehensive evaluation of lifting techniques, ergonomic practices, and workplace conditions to minimize musculoskeletal injuries and enhance worker safety. Proper lifting practices help prevent strains, sprains, and long-term spinal issues. Below is a detailed and structured approach for conducting these checks:

1. Pre-Inspection Preparation

Before conducting the Lifting & Back Safety Inspection, proper planning ensures thorough assessment and compliance with workplace safety standards.

1. a) Checklist Preparation

• Configure the eAuditor checklist to cover lifting posture, weight limits, use of lifting aids, and ergonomic assessments.
• Ensure checklists align with occupational safety guidelines such as OSHA, HSE, or local regulatory standards.
• Include sections for photographic evidence, corrective actions, and employee feedback.

1. b) Awareness & Communication

• Notify employees about the inspection and its purpose—ensuring cooperation.
• Reinforce lifting safety policies and procedures.
• Provide refresher guidelines on lifting techniques to employees before conducting observations.

1. c) Gather Inspection Tools

• Have a calibrated weighing scale to measure load weights if necessary.
• Ensure the availability of measuring tapes to assess workstations and lifting zones.
• Use mobile devices or tablets with eAuditor installed for real-time data collection.

2. Workplace Environment & Hazard Assessment

The work environment plays a critical role in lifting safety. Hazards such as confined spaces, unstable surfaces, and poorly stored materials can increase the risk of injuries.

1. a) Workspace Layout & Conditions

• Assess if workstations are ergonomically designed to minimize excessive bending, twisting, or overhead lifting.
• Identify obstacles or clutter that might pose trip hazards while carrying loads.
• Ensure work surfaces and storage racks are positioned at appropriate heights to reduce strain.

1. b) Floor & Surface Inspection

• Check for non-slip flooring to prevent accidental falls during lifting activities.
• Identify areas with uneven surfaces or loose flooring that could increase injury risk.
• Verify if lifting areas have sufficient space for proper body movement.

1. c) Load Placement & Storage

• Inspect how materials are stored—heavier items should be placed at waist height to reduce bending and reaching.
• Ensure racks and shelves are stable and not overloaded.
• Confirm that frequently lifted items are positioned for easy access.

3. Observation of Lifting Techniques

Monitoring employees while they lift, carry, and move objects allows for identifying unsafe practices and reinforcing proper techniques.

1. a) Proper Lifting Posture

• Ensure workers bend their knees and use leg muscles instead of their back while lifting.
• Observe if they keep the load close to their body to reduce strain.
• Assess body alignment—lifting should be done without twisting or jerking movements.

1. b) Weight Limit Adherence

• Check if employees follow workplace lifting weight guidelines.
• Verify if team lifting is used for heavy or awkward loads.
• Ensure that employees are not lifting beyond their physical capacity.

1. c) Use of Mechanical Aids

• Observe if lifting aids (e.g., forklifts, pallet jacks, hoists) are used when required.
• Ensure tools such as lifting straps and dollies are available and in good working condition.
• Verify that employees know how to properly use lifting equipment to prevent misuse or accidents.

4. Training & Employee Awareness

Proper education and training significantly reduce the risk of lifting-related injuries.

1. a) Verification of Training Records

• Review employee training logs to confirm participation in manual handling and ergonomic safety training.
• Check if refresher courses on lifting techniques are provided periodically.
• Ensure newly hired employees receive lifting safety instructions during onboarding.

1. b) Knowledge Assessment

• Ask employees questions about correct lifting techniques and workplace safety policies.
• Evaluate awareness of reporting procedures for lifting-related injuries or hazards.
• Assess if employees understand the importance of stretching and warm-up exercises before engaging in physically demanding tasks.

1. c) Safety Signage & Awareness Materials

• Ensure posters or charts displaying proper lifting techniques are visible in work areas.
• Confirm that weight limits for manual lifting are clearly marked on storage areas.
• Assess if emergency procedures for lifting-related injuries are displayed and accessible.

5. Evaluation of Equipment & PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)

Proper equipment and protective gear help reduce strain and injuries during lifting activities.

1. a) Condition of Lifting Aids

• Inspect tools such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and lifting slings for maintenance and usability.
• Ensure hand trucks and dollies have functioning wheels and handles.
• Verify the availability of mechanical lifting devices in high-risk areas.

1. b) Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Check if workers wear appropriate PPE, such as:
  • Back support belts (if required)
  • Non-slip footwear
  • Protective gloves for handling rough or heavy materials
• Ensure that PPE is properly fitted and regularly maintained.

6. Documentation & Reporting in eAuditor

eAuditor streamlines data collection, analysis, and reporting, ensuring accurate records of inspections.

1. a) Recording Findings

• Document all observations, including photographic evidence of unsafe practices.
• Note any recurring issues or areas of concern.
• Assign corrective actions with clear deadlines and responsibilities.

1. b) Generating Reports

• Compile findings into an easy-to-read report using eAuditor’s automated reporting feature.
• Share reports with safety officers, supervisors, and management for action planning.
• Store reports for compliance audits and future reference.

1. c) Assigning Corrective Actions

• Address unsafe lifting practices with immediate corrective measures.
• Schedule follow-up inspections to verify that safety recommendations have been implemented.
• Provide additional training sessions if needed to reinforce proper techniques.

7. Follow-Up & Continuous Improvement

To ensure long-term safety, continuous assessment and improvement of lifting practices are necessary.

1. a) Regular Inspections

• Schedule recurring Lifting & Back Safety Checks at least monthly.
• Adapt checklists based on new workplace hazards or operational changes.

1. b) Employee Feedback & Involvement

• Encourage workers to report ergonomic issues and suggest improvements.
• Conduct employee surveys to assess their understanding of proper lifting techniques.
• Involve safety representatives in developing lifting policies.

1. c) Monitoring Injury Reports

• Track lifting-related injury trends to identify problem areas.
• Implement targeted interventions to reduce injury rates.
• Adjust workplace procedures and training programs based on collected data.

Summary

Performing Lifting & Back Safety Checks using eAuditor ensures that workplaces maintain safe lifting practices, minimize the risk of back injuries, and promote ergonomic efficiency. By evaluating posture, weight handling, workspace conditions, and employee training, organizations can create a safer environment and enhance workforce productivity. Continuous monitoring, proper use of lifting aids, and regular employee training are key to preventing musculoskeletal injuries and fostering a culture of workplace safety.