Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) - Interactive Training - Material Handling Safety -Using a Push-Broom

U.S. DOL, MSHA, National Mine Health and Safety Academy

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Using a Push-Broom

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Manual Handling of Materials: Low-Back Injuries – Prevention and Recovery (continued)

Tips for a Healthy Back

Using a Push-Broom

Walk back and forth
Handle against hip-bone
Elbow bent
Handle length

Note: Illustration shows a push-broom.

Walk back and forth with handle of the broom resting against your hip-bone. Keep elbow bent. If you can get the job done this way it’s easiest on the back.

Extra pressure is placed on the spine by moving arms back and forth, or by bending at the waist. The broom handle should be long enough for you to avoid a bent-over position.