Question

how should you hold an object when you are lifting?

a use only your fingertips to improve your grip
b keep the object as close to your body as possible
c use both hands when lifting an object over your head
d keep arms straight to prevent arm strain

Explanation:

Analyze safe lifting mechanics

$$ \text{Lever arm distance} \propto \text{Spinal compressive force} $$

Evaluate the options

• Option A: Fingertip grip increases the risk of dropping and localized strain.
• Option B: Minimizing the distance between the load and the body's center of gravity reduces the moment arm, minimizing spinal shear stress.
• Option C: Overhead lifting is generally discouraged and should not be done with both hands as a standard safe holding rule.
• Option D: Keeping arms completely straight increases the lever arm and strain on the upper body.

Answer:

• (A) Use only your fingertips to improve your grip
• (B) Keep the object as close to your body as possible (Correct answer)
• (C) Use both hands when lifting an object over your head
• (D) Keep arms straight to prevent arm strain