Which practice helps reduce work-related injuries when handling supplies?

• A. Do not overextend your reach when attempting to grasp supplies.
• B. Climb on chairs or desks to reach items.
• C. Twist your back while lifting.
• D. Ignore asking for help when lifting heavy objects.

Answer: (A)

Keeping loads within a comfortable reach is essential for safe handling of supplies. When you avoid overreaching, your spine stays closer to its neutral position, which reduces the lever arm that the back muscles have to support. This lowers the risk of muscle strains, slipped discs, and loss of balance. The safer approach is to keep the item close to your body, bend at the hips and knees to lower it, and move it rather than stretching forward. If something is out of reach, use a step stool or cart, or ask for help instead of attempting to grab it from a distance.

Other options raise safety risks: climbing on chairs or desks is unstable and a fall hazard; twisting your back while lifting increases strain on the spine; and ignoring help when lifting heavy objects can overload one person and lead to serious injury.