At one time or another, almost everyone who works in the restaurant and bar industry has been asked to change, move or assist with a beer keg. If they are lucky, an experienced coworker will be able to provide instruction and guidance on how to properly move and swap empty kegs for full ones. Unfortunately, there are too many instances where none of the individuals in the establishment have received proper training and the employee may think, “I only need to move it a few feet, how hard can that possibly be?”

A full keg has the potential to weigh more than 160 pounds. Lifting it improperly can quickly lead to severe muscle strains, broken bones, crushed toes or other serious injuries — not to mention property damage. As with most dangerous tasks, negative outcomes can be mitigated with proper techniques and safe handling practices.

Here are a few methods for proper keg handling to help avoid employee injuries.

Preparation for keg handling

Before attempting to move any kegs, you should be aware that a completely empty keg weighs about 30 pounds, while a full keg maxes out at just under 165 pounds. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has standards that set restrictions or limits on certain activities. While OSHA does not set a maximum limit on how much weight a person may lift, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends a maximum weight of 51 pounds for lifting under ideal conditions. With this knowledge, make sure you have the proper equipment and know-how before approaching a full keg.

How to lift a keg with another person

Since it’s unsafe for one person to move 160 pounds by themselves, the first thing you should do is ask for help.

The risks of manual handling are not eliminated, even as a two-person job. The weight, awkward shape and limited handholds on the keg can make it difficult to maneuver, especially in cramped settings. Whenever possible, a two-wheeled hand truck (dolly) should be utilized to minimize manual handling. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the proper operation of the hand truck and never load with more weight than the equipment was designed and tested for. If there are no hand trucks available, the next safest option is to tilt and roll. The keg can be tilted slightly on one side and slowly rolled to where it needs to go. The goal is to minimize lifting and only use it as a last resort. If lifting/carrying cannot be avoided, do not forget proper lifting techniques:

• • Keep your back straight. Don’t bend at the waist. Bend at the knees and straighten your legs to lift, using your strong leg muscles rather than your back.
  • Ensure you are as close to the object as possible (the further the load is from the center of your body, the greater the strain on your back).
  • Breathe steadily (never hold your breath) and tighten your stomach to help keep your spine from twisting. To turn, pivot on your feet instead of twisting your trunk. Keep your nose between your toes to stay aligned.

Before lifting the keg, each employee should have an understanding exactly where the keg is being transported to and where they will be walking. Ensure the path you selected is free of any additional hazards (wet spots, uneven surfaces, etc.) and the destination of the keg is prepped and accessible.

A full keg has the potential to weigh more than 160 pounds. Lifting it improperly can quickly lead to severe muscle strains, broken bones, crushed toes or other serious injuries — not to mention property damage.

After everyone’s position has been clearly communicated, only then are you ready to work out the lifting portion. Both handles on the keg should be grasped with the weight of the keg evenly distributed amongst all parties. If no handles are present, stand on opposite sides and select a handhold directly even to your partner’s handhold. One individual cannot be allowed to do all the heavy lifting; otherwise, you increase potential for the keg to be dropped.

While you are walking with the keg, if either party loses their grip and the keg begins to slip, let the keg fall to the ground while backing away. Attempting to re-grip or grab a rapidly falling keg may lead to broken fingers or toes or other serious injuries. Remember, lifting or carrying a full keg should only be performed if there are no safer alternatives.

Lifting heavy beer kegs is an occupational hazard for restaurant and bar workers, but taking the proper precautions can help prevent injury. To learn more about protecting your business or to find a local agent, visit SocietyInsurance.com

This information is provided as a convenience for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal or professional advice. It is provided to assist you in recognizing potential unsafe work problems or conditions and not to establish compliance with any law, rule or regulation.