To reduce strains from lifting, think about how something will be stored before doing so. Is it light and easy to lift? Then it could go at or above shoulder height. If it is heavier, store it in the power zone: roughly top of your thighs to shoulder height.
Do you even have to lift the object (let’s say it is a box)? Is it something that could be slid onto a cart to eliminate having to lift it? Then you want to store it about at the height of the cart.
Take into consideration the height of other people who may need to lift or move the box. The power zone for someone who is 6’2” is very different than for someone who is 5’. When reaching for objects that are stored higher, a stepstool is a great tool. However, you do not want to be getting a heavier box off a higher shelf and have to step off a step stool. What could possibly go wrong? Well, the main thing is losing your balance. We’ve seen wrist fractures, head injuries, twisted ankles and more from this kind of action.
So, think about ways you can reduce or eliminate lifting and keep whatever you are lifting close to your body to make it easier.