Twisting your body when you're lifting is okay if you have to change directions while carrying something.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Depends on the load
• D. Only with training

Answer: (B)

Twisting while holding a load places torsional stress on the spine and increases the risk of back injury. The safest approach is to keep the spine in a neutral position and move the entire body to reorient yourself, not the torso alone. When you need to change direction, pivot on your feet and rotate your hips to face the new direction while keeping the load close to your body and over your center of gravity. This engages the legs and core and minimizes spinal twisting.

If space or the load makes turning without twisting impractical, set the load down, reposition, and lift again, or use assistance or a mechanical aid like a dolly or hoist. In welding shop settings, where weights and awkward shapes are common, avoiding twisting with a carried load is a key safety practice.