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SMG U Library

Safe Lifting & Ergonomics

This month’s Safety Toolkit features a 3-minute micro-training video on ergonomics, material handling, and safe lifting. The video provides a focused look at preventing strains, sprains, and repetitive motion injuries, covering proper body mechanics, safe lifting techniques, and practical ways to reduce physical strain on the job. You’ll also find links to six Toolbox Talks covering back injury prevention, ergonomic hazards, material handling, safe lifting practices, proper workstation setup, and stretching and micro-break strategies for office teams.

 

 

Select the cog wheel to turn on the closed captioning for Spanish subtitles.
SMG U Toolbox Talks

Construction Toolbox Talks

Staying safe on a busy jobsite starts with staying aware. Toolbox talks are a simple, effective way to keep safety top of mind—especially when workers are navigating heavy equipment, moving vehicles, and constantly changing conditions. These short, focused briefings help teams recognize risks, reinforce best practices, and meet safety training requirements in a practical, real-world way.
01

Back Injuries

Back injuries can result from improper lifting and repetitive strain. This talk covers safe lifting techniques, proper body positioning, and ways to reduce stress on the spine. Workers learn to recognize hazards, use mechanical assistance, and report discomfort early to prevent long-term injuries.

Download (English)

Download (Spanish)

Created by SMG U
02

Ergonomics 101

Repetitive movements and awkward postures can lead to serious injuries. This talk explores ergonomic risk factors, including force, vibration, and prolonged strain. Workers learn to adjust work areas, use proper tools, and recognize early warning signs to prevent injuries.

Download (English)

Download (Spanish)

Created by SMG U
03

Material Handling

Everyday material handling tasks can put stress on the body. This talk focuses on safe lifting, carrying, and moving techniques. Crews learn to plan lifts, use mechanical assistance, and reduce awkward movements to protect their backs, shoulders, and knees.

Download (English)

Download (Spanish)

Created by SMG U
04

Safe Lifting

Proper lifting techniques help prevent workplace injuries. This talk covers safe body mechanics, common lifting mistakes, and the importance of mechanical assistance. Workers learn to handle heavy or awkward loads, reduce repetitive strain, and recognize early signs of injury.

Download (English)

Download (Spanish)

Created by SMG U
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SMG U Toolbox Talks

Admin Toolbox Talks

Office safety depends on more than avoiding obvious hazards, it starts with everyday awareness. These Toolbox Talks are a simple and effective way to keep safety top of mind by addressing the risks found in offices, break rooms, and shared workspaces. These briefings help employees recognize electrical and fire hazards, reinforce safe workplace habits, and promote a safer environment through practical, real-world guidance.
01

Proper Desk Setup

A properly adjusted workstation helps reduce discomfort and strain. This talk covers chair height, monitor placement, keyboard positioning, and laptop setup. Office employees learn simple adjustments to improve posture and protect their necks, backs, wrists, and shoulders.

Download (English)

 

Created by SMG U
02

Office Stretch Breaks

Regular movement helps prevent strain from prolonged sitting and repetitive tasks. This talk highlights simple stretches, movement breaks, and strategies to reduce screen fatigue. Office employees learn practical ways to relieve discomfort, improve focus, and support long-term health.

Download (English)

 

Created by SMG U
Links to Free OSHA Resources
OSHA Resource

Ergonomics Webpage

OSHA Ergonomics Webpage

OSHA’s Ergonomics page resource provides guidance on identifying and preventing workplace musculoskeletal disorders caused by repetitive movements, heavy lifting, awkward postures, and overexertion. It also outlines practical strategies for reducing ergonomic hazards, improving work practices, and protecting employees from strains, sprains, and other injuries.

OSHA Resource

Computer Workstations

OSHA Computer Workstations eTool

OSHA’s Computer Workstations eTool provides guidance on properly setting up office workstations to reduce ergonomic hazards and prevent musculoskeletal injuries. It covers chair adjustments, monitor placement, keyboard positioning, and proper posture, while offering practical recommendations for improving comfort and reducing physical strain throughout the workday.

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Got another topic in mind? Let us know!

Take a minute to let us know which safety topics matter most to you and your team. Your feedback helps us create toolbox talks and tips that speak to the challenges you're facing right now—on your job, with your crew, in real time.

✅ Check any topics you want more of
✍️ Suggest your own in the box at the bottom

Let’s make safety content that works for you.