Choosing a Lifting Posture: Squat, Semi-Squat or Stoop

Manual Handling involves the lifting, carrying, pushing and pulling of materials and objects [1]. Training in safe handling techniques is a recommended way to reduce risk factors associated with manual handling within the working environment, particularly the lifting of low-lying objects as this has long been associated with an increased risk of lower back injuries [2]. However, manual handling training programs have not proven to be successful in reducing musculoskeletal problems in an industrial environment, often attributed to inadequate training methods [2]. The majority of safe handling training including lifting techniques for low-lying objects is not adaptable to employees, workplaces and the variety of tasks found within an industrial environment. In a broad consensus most governing bodies favor the promotion of sound biomechanical principals associated with manual handling tasks; however, they do not appear to be easily applicable to the wide range and complexity of manual handling situations that occur in an industrial environment [3].