Move in Complete Safety : Tips to Avoid Injuries!
When it comes to moving, more than a third of all injuries are caused by poor handling or accidents such as falls, dropped furniture or cuts. Fortunately, it’s possible to move safely and avoid injuries by following these tips!
Pack efficiently
To facilitate transport and reduce the risk of injury:
- Use sturdy, reasonably-sized boxes.
- Distribute items so that each box can be easily lifted.
For furniture and appliances:
- Disassemble furniture and empty drawers.
- Make sure there are no nails or screws sticking out.
- Drain water from appliances.
Plan your moving in advance
Good planning is essential for a smooth moving day:
- How many people will be helping you, and what are each person’s capabilities?
- Are there elevators? If not, which staircase is the most convenient to use?
- What are the nearest parking options?
- What’s the weather forecast? Plan to take frequent breaks, and stay well hydrated in hot weather.
- How wide are the entrances? Do doors need to be removed or traffic areas de-cluttered?
- Are there any differences in floor levels to be taken into account?
Use the appropriate equipment
For your outfit, you should wear :
- Clothing that covers your shoulders and thighs.
- Closed, anti-skid footwear.
- Durable, grippy work gloves.
As for equipment, you should consider at least :
- A dolly to carry heavy objects.
- A wide gangplank to reduce reliance on stairs.
- Double straps crossing at the back to safely transport furniture and appliances by two people.
For more information on equipment and its use in specific contexts, consult the CNESST’s handling equipment search tool.
Follow the best practices on the big day
Here are 12 tips to avoid overloading your joints:
- Slide, pivot, tip or roll instead of lifting.
- Push instead of pulling.
- Keep the load close to your body.
- Bend your knees instead of leaning forward.
- Always face the load and avoid twisting
- Move smoothly.
- Balance the load symmetrically.
- Keep your feet apart for better stability.
- Keep distances as short as possible.
- Limit handling items above the shoulders and from the ground.
- Ensure stacked boxes are stable, with lighter items on top.
- Work in pairs for oversized or heavy items, and communicate with each other to coordinate your efforts.
Finally, warm up by carrying light boxes first. Take your time, eat enough and drink plenty of water.
Happy moving!
By Sophie-Anne Scherrer, occupational therapist
Article reviewed in June 2024
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References :
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IRSST (2016). Huit règles pour observer les manutentionnaires en action
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CNESST (2016). Déménagement sécuritaire
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CNESST (2016). Outil de recherché des appareils de manutention
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IRSST. Manutention et risques
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Adam, J. (2017). Déménagement : conseils pour éviter de se blesser le jour J.