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100-CBO-01-IGDO © 2025, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS)
1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | WSPS.CA
WSPS.CA
Proper lifting
technique
Warm up before starting: Stretch your arms, legs, and back to prepare your
muscles, increase circulation, and reduce stiffness.
Push snow rather than lift it whenever possible.
Bend at the knees, not the back.
Keep the shovel close to your body in a neutral working position.
Lift with your legs, not your arms or back—your spine should remain in a
natural position throughout the lift.
Position yourself to move snow efficiently without excessive throwing or
twisting.
Prevent
overexertion
Dress in layers to regulate body temperature and prevent overheating.
Avoid shoveling during extreme cold or poor visibility unless absolutely
necessary.
Take frequent breaks to rest muscles and catch your breath, reducing the
risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).
Shovel early and often, smaller snow falls require less effort to clean up.
This also prevent snow from compacting or turning to ice.
Rotate job tasks to prevent fatigue and overexertion.
Alternate between left and right hands to balance muscle use and reduce
fatigue.
Stay hydrated, consider using electrolyte infused drinks such as sports
drinks.
Visibility and
Awareness
of your
Environment
Wear reflective, high-visibility clothing, especially when working in areas
accessible to traffic or motorized equipment.
Avoid piling snow where it may obstruct visibility or create hazards during
thawing and refreezing.
Be mindful of your surroundings at all times.
Watch for snow and ice overhangs above head.
Watch for traffic and pedestrians, especially when working near sidewalks
and roadways.
Any additional clothing, accessories or visibility devices used should be
appropriate for the work site and not create any additional risk factors.
Example: reduced ability to hear back up alarms while using headphones.
