Carrying Loads on Stairs and Slopes
Construction and general industry · Ver en español
Talking points
- Carrying heavy or bulky loads on stairs and slopes is one of the highest-risk manual handling tasks. The combination of balance, load weight, and fall potential is dangerous.
- Maintain a clear line of sight over or around the load. If the load blocks your view of the stairs, get help or use a different method.
- Use material hoists, rope systems, or mechanical aids to move materials between floors whenever possible. Even a simple rope and pulley reduces the need to carry on stairs.
- When team-carrying on stairs, the lower person bears most of the weight. Communicate clearly — agree on pace, stops, and commands before starting.
- Never rush on stairs with a load. One slip can injure the carrier and anyone behind or below them. Take each step deliberately and use handrails when one hand is free.
Ask the crew
Are we carrying anything up or down stairs today that could be moved by a hoist, crane, or elevator instead?
Standards this talk is built on
- Section 5(a)(1)
A toolbox talk is a short safety briefing. It supports the training a standard requires; it does not replace it.
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Sign-in sheet
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| Name | Signature | Date |
|---|---|---|
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