SafetyQuestion 360 of 360
A plumber must move a heavy cast-iron water heater and lengths of pipe across a jobsite. What is the safest material-handling practice?
a.Lift the heaviest load alone quickly to save time
b.Twist at the waist while lifting to speed the turn
c.Use mechanical aids (dolly, hand truck) or team lifting, keep the back straight, lift with the legs, and avoid twisting
d.Carry as much as possible in one trip to reduce trips
Explanation
Safe material handling means sizing up the load and using mechanical aids like dollies or hand trucks, or getting help for heavy or awkward items, rather than overloading one person. Proper body mechanics, keeping the load close, bending the knees, lifting with the legs, and not twisting, reduce back injuries, which are among the most common in the trades. Planning the path and clearing obstacles also prevents strains and drops.
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