Lift Correctly Sign

Lift Correctly Sign (MS0074)

Manual handling injuries are among the most common and most preventable causes of lost time aboard vessels, typically resulting from incorrect lifting technique rather than the weight of the load itself. The Lift Correctly sign (MS0074) is a photoluminescent ISO 7010 mandatory-action marking designed to be posted at cargo handling stations, stores rooms, and any work area where crew regularly lift heavy or awkward loads. Manufactured to a maritime-grade photoluminescent specification, the sign remains clearly visible during a blackout or power failure, reinforcing correct lifting technique regardless of lighting conditions.

Vessels operating under SOLAS and the ISM Code must identify occupational hazards, including manual handling risks, and apply consistent controls to reduce injury across the ship’s company. Posting the Lift Correctly sign at stores rooms, cargo handling areas, and workshop entrances reinforces safe technique for every crew member and visiting contractor, supporting the vessel’s documented safety management system and reducing the incidence of back and joint injuries.

Why Face Protection Matters

Lifting with a bent back rather than bent knees places enormous strain on the lumbar spine and is one of the leading causes of long-term back injury among seafarers and shore-based workers alike. The correct technique – keeping the load close to the body, bending the knees, and keeping the back straight – dramatically reduces this risk, but it is easy to forget under time pressure or when a task feels routine. Displaying the Lift Correctly sign at the point where lifting tasks are performed serves as a constant, low-cost reminder that reduces the likelihood of a preventable manual handling injury.

Compliance and Certification

This sign is produced to the ISO 7010 international graphical symbol standard, using the recognised blue circular mandatory-action pictogram together with clear supporting text so the instruction is understood by crew of any nationality. The ISM Code requires shipowners and operators to identify occupational hazards, including manual handling risks, and implement effective controls, including reminder signage, as part of the vessel’s safety management system, while SOLAS reinforces the wider duty to keep all persons aboard informed of hazards to their health and safety. For the complete international regulatory framework, see the IMO’s SOLAS overview at imo.org. Displaying the Lift Correctly sign supports a positive outcome at ISM audit and demonstrates proactive injury-prevention practice.

Installation Recommendations

Mount the sign at eye level in stores rooms, cargo handling stations, workshop entrances, and any other location where crew regularly lift heavy or awkward items. Charge the photoluminescent surface under normal lighting for the recommended period so it performs correctly if power is lost, and secure the sign with corrosion-resistant fasteners or marine-grade adhesive suited to the mounting surface. Record the sign’s position on the vessel’s safety plan so it is checked during routine safety rounds and replaced if damaged or faded.

• Photoluminescent, ISO 7010-compliant mandatory-action design for reliable low-light visibility
• Durable, corrosion-resistant construction suited to stores rooms, cargo areas, and workshops
• Reinforces safe manual handling technique to reduce preventable back and joint injuries
• Supports ISM Code hazard-control documentation and SOLAS safety-communication requirements
• Simple surface-mount installation at any location where lifting tasks are performed

Reduce preventable manual handling injuries with the Lift Correctly sign (MS0074) – order today to reinforce safe lifting practice throughout your vessel.

For additional onboard risk areas, browse our range of Hazard Signs and Fire Fighting Signs to complete your vessel’s mandatory safety signage compliance.