Lifting Strategies: Loading and Unloading a Dishwasher

Various lifting in situations create challenges that need attention when you lift. The key is to familiarize yourself with the concepts of safe lifting including lifting with your legs, keeping your back in the power position, and avoiding twisting. Once you've got the concepts, you can apply them to every lifting situation you encounter. Practice and use good lifting technique when loading and unloading a dishwasher.

How can I benefit by learning this skill?

Repeated actions of bending and twisting the spine can hurt your back. Take every effort to move and lift safely when you load or unload a dishwasher. You can protect your back during this activity by bending with your hips and by pivoting with your feet.

How do I perform this skill?

Face the dishwasher each time you reach to load or unload dishes. Bend from your hips, not your low back. Pivot your feet in the direction you are moving, rather than twisting with your back.

Are there other recommendations I need to be aware of?

You may tend to bend over from your back if your leg muscles are weak. Work these muscle groups to give you every advantage when doing tasks like loading and unloading a dishwasher.

What should I watch out for while doing this skill?

Always position your back safely during this activity. Open and close the dishwasher door by bending with your hips and knees—not your back. It's easy to get in a rush and use poor habit when loading and unloading the dishwasher. Rely on your leg muscles. And keep from twisting your back by pivoting your feet.