Home / Mental Health / Lifting Techniques for Farmers

Lifting Techniques for Farmers

Good lifting is mostly planning. This guide covers general principles, and points you to official sources for specific limits and methods.

What makes a lift risky?

Risk depends on the load, the posture and how often you repeat the task. Heavy, bulky or awkward objects, reaching far from the body, twisting and lifting from the floor or above the shoulder all raise strain. Tired or hurried workers are at more risk too.

This guide does not give weight limits, because safe limits depend on the person and the task. For official guidance and tools, see NIOSH and your extension office.

Lifting animals, equipment parts and heavy containers all call for the same basic approach: plan, reduce the load, and do not rush.

What should you do before you lift?

Stop and think. Look at the object, the path you will carry it along and where it is going. Check the weight by nudging it. Clear the route of mud, ice, hoses and tools.

Ask whether you really need to lift it. A cart, hand truck, loader, hoist or second person may be better. Wait until you have what you need rather than lifting alone.

Plan the end of the lift too. Know where the load goes and that the spot is clear and stable before you pick it up, so you are not holding the weight while figuring out where to set it.

• Size up the load and the route
• Check for slippery or uneven ground
• Use equipment instead of muscles
• Ask for help with bulky or heavy items
• Wear gloves and footwear suited to the job

What are the general principles of good technique?

Several principles are widely taught. Keep the load close to your body, keep a stable footing, lift smoothly instead of jerking, and avoid twisting by turning with your feet. Use your legs and avoid rounding your back while lifting where you can.

Because technique differs by task and body, a physical therapist or recognized training course can show you in person. Hands-on coaching beats reading about it.

Shoes with good grip, clear footing and enough light matter as much as technique. Most bad lifts start with a slip or an awkward step.

How do you handle awkward loads?

Feed sacks, water buckets, tools, tires and animals do not come in tidy shapes. Break large loads into smaller ones where possible, and use handles, straps or carts.

Do not try to catch a falling object or lift something that is stuck. Step back and reassess.

If a load is too heavy or awkward, set it down carefully and ask for help or equipment. Nobody on the farm needs to prove anything by lifting alone.

What about repeated lifting and long days?

Repetition adds up, even when each lift is light. Mix tasks, take breaks and spread heavy work across the day and across people. Avoid doing the heaviest lifts when tired.

Cold muscles are stiffer, so start with lighter tasks and ease in.

Do your biggest lifts earlier in the day when you are fresher, and switch to lighter tasks as you tire. Switch sides and positions when you can, and avoid holding a load for longer than you need to. A short rest between loads helps the body recover.

How can you set up the farm to reduce lifting?

Store heavy items at waist height, shorten carrying distances and use feed or product packaging that is easier to handle. Raise work surfaces so you do not bend as often.

When buying supplies or equipment, ask about package sizes and handling options. Your dealer or extension office may suggest alternatives.

Ask your supplier whether products come in smaller containers, and consider pallet jacks, ramps and hoists for items you move often.

When do you stop and get checked?

Sharp pain, a pop or sudden weakness, or pain that lingers or spreads is a reason to stop and see a doctor. Do not work through it. If there is severe pain with numbness or weakness, get medical care promptly, and call 911 in an emergency.

Teach young workers and new hires, and confirm youth work rules with the U.S. Department of Labor.

Remember that good habits are taught by example. Owners and supervisors who use carts, ask for help and take their time set a pattern that others follow.

Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Farm Safety Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.