Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) Safety Assessment Practice Test

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Prepare for the MSSC Safety Assessment Exam. Utilize study materials and tackle multiple choice questions with guidance on each answer. Set yourself up for success!

Practice this question and more.


A key principle of safe lifting is to always keep the load __________.

  1. Close to your body

  2. In front of you

  3. At arms length

  4. Above shoulder height

The correct answer is: Close to your body

Keeping the load close to your body is essential in safe lifting techniques because it helps to reduce the strain on your back and muscles. When you lift objects near your center of gravity, your body is better able to maintain balance and stability. This position minimizes the risk of injury by allowing your muscles to work more efficiently and effectively support the weight of the load. In addition, holding the load close to your body decreases the lever effect on your spine, which occurs when a heavy load is held far away. This not only contributes to better posture while lifting but also significantly lowers the likelihood of overexertion and fatigue. Proper lifting techniques, including keeping the load close while maintaining a stable base of support, are crucial for both short-term safety and long-term health in a manufacturing or industrial environment.