Background

The Occupational Health and Safety Act requires that employers take every reasonable precaution to ensure the safety of workers. The Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board recognizes the need to assess the risks associated with lifting requirement6s when working with students with special needs. The following guidelines developed are from the Education Safety Association of Ontario.

Responsibilities of the Lifter

* Conducting a pre lift assessment * Maintaining adequate muscle strength and flexibility * Being physically fit * Be aware of the limits of your personal strength and abilities * Be familiar with the available lifting equipment * Participate in training

Responsibilities of the Principal or Supervisor

* Ensure a qualified practitioner assesses each new student and recommends safe lifting and transferring practices * Assisting the lifter in the pre-lift assessment * Providing lifting equipment where appropriate * Providing a lifting partner where required * Assess and address any environmental barriers to a safe lift

Guidelines for Lifting

Applying the following guidelines to lifts and transfers will decrease the inherent risk for both parties in a person to person lift or transfer.

1. Conduct a Pre-Lift Assessment

* Is the lifter unusually fatigued or stressed? * Does the lifter have tight muscles? * Does the lifter have a temporary or permanent condition which would negatively impact the ability to lift safely? * What are the physical characteristics of the lifter(s): e.g. weight, height? * Is the lifter wearing appropriate foot wear and clothing?

2. Assess the Student to be Lifted

* What are the physical characteristics of the student? Height, weight? * Can the student assist in any capacity e.g. holding the lifter around the shoulders? * Does the student have pain, deformity or abnormal muscle tone which could interfere with the lift? * Are there appliances which are to be worn or removed for the lift?

3. Assess the Environmental Factors

* What are the environmental design barriers, e.g. room size, handrails, commode location? * What are the mechanical features of the wheelchair, insert etc.

4. Plan the Lift

* Select an appropriate lift/transfer style. * Can this lift be safely completed by one person? * Is equipment required? * Rehearse the proper body mechanics and posture for the lift. * Talk to the student (and lift partner) prior to each lift.

Basic Rules for Lifting

These basic rules for lifting should be followed at all times. * Keep the load close to your body - maintain the load as close to your centre of gravity as possible. * check your posture - never twist or lean. * Use your legs - thighs can take more load than your back so move your feet, not your waist to change direction. * Avoid lifts higher than your chest and lower than your knees. * Ask for a risk assessment and assistance when necessary. * Take your time, rushing increases the risk of making a dangerous mistake.

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