To protect your back when turning with a load, which action is recommended?

• A. Twist at the waist only
• B. Turn your whole body, not just your waist
• C. Look over your shoulder
• D. Keep knees locked while turning

Answer: (B)

Turning with a load safely means rotate your feet and hips to face the direction you’re going, rather than twisting at the waist. This keeps the spine in a neutral position and lets the strong muscles in your legs do the work, which reduces rotational stress and the risk of back strain. Keep the load close to your body, bend your knees, and take small steps to pivot. Twisting at the waist creates torque on the spine and increases injury risk, while keeping your knees locked removes the natural shock absorption you need. Looking over your shoulder can help you see where you’re going, but it doesn’t substitute for turning your whole body to move safely.