What action should be taken if a load is too heavy to lift safely?

When confronted with a load that is too heavy to lift safely, the most appropriate action is to ask for help or utilize lifting aids. This approach minimizes the risk of injury, particularly to the back and other muscles that can be strained or damaged by lifting heavy weights without adequate support.

Using lifting aids such as trolleys, forklifts, or hoists can significantly reduce the physical strain on the body and ensure that the load is moved efficiently and safely. Additionally, seeking assistance from colleagues or others who can help share the load can be vital, as teamwork can make lifting manageable without risking personal safety.

In contrast, attempting to lift a heavy load using proper technique, trying to lift it quickly, or lifting while twisting can lead to severe injuries. Proper technique is essential, but it becomes ineffective when the weight exceeds a person's safe lifting capacity. Speed in lifting does not compensate for the potential dangers presented by excessively heavy loads, and twisting while lifting increases the risk of back injuries further. Therefore, the safest and most effective strategy is to ask for help or employ lifting aids.