Moving Heavy Objects Down Stairs

Written by Posted On Monday, 04 February 2019 08:19

Sometimes situations call for heavy lifting, i.e., when moving the couch, the TV or a new mattress or when you're moving out and into a new home. Hopefully, you are moving with the help of another person. One thing to keep in mind when moving heavy objects down stairs is to keep yourself safe from injuries. Here's how you can start.

Moving Heavy Objects Down Stairs - Safety Tips

 

Examine the Item

 

First, you'll need to inspect the object you'll be moving. Get a feel for its weight and ask yourself, "Is it too heavy to move alone or down a flight of stairs?" If so, you may need a friend or a tool so you won't hurt yourself or damage the item.

 

Map a Moving Route

 

You must have a general idea on where the object will be placed once you lift it up and start moving. If you're moving out, will the item be stacked on the truck? If relocating, where will it go? Once that's done, make sure that the route is free of obstacles, i.e., small toys, stones, dust and uneven surfaces.

 

Assume the Proper Stance

 

In carrying heavy objects, you must keep your back straight, ensure your feet are spaced shoulder-width apart, bend your knees and look straight. Get a good, firm hold using both hands then use your arms, back and legs to get it up and off the floor.

 

Proper Lifting

 

While moving the object, keep it close to your body and use your legs to lift the load. Use smooth, slow movement and keep your back straight. Don't try to twist or contort your body to get around obstacles; instead, change direction using your feet and make small steps as you do so.

 

Proper Dropping

 

When putting the object down, assume a squatting position using your legs while keeping your back straight. Hold the item close to the body and set it down to the floor or the stand as gently as you can.

 

Using a Hand Truck

 

While a hand truck is best used for moving heavy objects such as furniture, bedding, the TV and others up a flight of stairs, a hand truck should provide great help when you're moving them down. Here's what you can do:

 

Step 1) Slide the truck's downside under the item.

 

Step 2) Use straps to secure the object to the hand truck and test it and see if it's stable and not moving.

 

Step 3) Set the hand truck near the stairs and tilt it down. Balance the entire weight on the wheels and brace yourself as needed.

 

Step 4) The general rule is to walk forward when you're moving heavy objects down the stairs and walk backward when you're going up the stairs.

 

Professional movers recommend wearing working gloves during the whole procedure and warming up, i.e., doing stretches on your back, arms and legs before attempting to move a heavy object. If there's a dolly available, use it and as always, do not bend over to lift the item.

 

Hopefully with the tips above of moving heavy objects down stairs your move is quick and simple. Always remember the proper position when lifting and setting down heavy objects. This will prevent many injuries.

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Rocky Degrenia

Small business owner; all types of flooring. #1 Rated Flooring Installer in Phoenix, AZ. Over 6 decades of experience and education. Residential and Commercial. Family man, father of three teenage girls.

www.knightflooringaz.com/

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