When lifting or setting down a load, you should bend at the what?

Bending at the knees while lifting or setting down a load is crucial for maintaining proper body mechanics and reducing the risk of injury. When you bend your knees, you engage the larger, stronger muscles in your legs rather than placing unnecessary strain on your back. This technique allows you to maintain a more stable center of gravity, which is essential for safely lifting heavier loads. Additionally, bending at the knees helps to keep the load close to your body, further reducing the leverage and effort required to lift it.

Using proper lifting techniques is vital for preventing musculoskeletal injuries, particularly in the back, which is often vulnerable during lifting motions. Thus, bending at the knees is a fundamental practice in both professional and everyday lifting scenarios to promote safety and efficiency.