Scout's Toolbox Talks

Lifting something the right way is only half the equation — how you move with it matters just as much. One of the biggest causes of back injuries on site is twisting your body while carrying a load.

Why It Matters:

When you twist with weight in your hands, you force your spine to absorb strain it wasn’t built for. This puts stress on your lower back discs and muscles, which are already under pressure from the weight. Over time — or in one bad move — this can result in strains, slipped discs, or long-term back problems that may never fully heal.

Most of these injuries are preventable with proper movement habits. Simple changes to the way you turn, reach, or pivot with a load can make a huge difference in how your body holds up over the course of a long day — or a long career.

Key Points:

• Never twist your back while holding a load. Keep your shoulders and hips facing the same direction during the lift.
• Pivot with your feet. If you need to change direction, move your feet instead of rotating your torso.
• Keep the load close to your body. The farther it is from your center of gravity, the harder it is to control safely.
• Break large turns into smaller steps. Don’t try to spin around in one motion — pause and reposition as needed.
• Use carts or dollies for long-distance moves. Fatigue makes twisting more likely — plan ahead to reduce strain.

✅ Twisting = Trouble. Pivot Instead.

Ask the Crew:

• Do we see workers twisting with loads instead of moving their feet?
• Are we giving ourselves enough space to move loads safely?

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