Why is it important to maintain a wide base of support when lifting?

Maintaining a wide base of support when lifting is crucial because it enhances stability and balance. A wider base provides a greater area of contact with the ground, which helps distribute weight more evenly and lowers the center of gravity. This stability is essential for preventing falls or shifts in position that could lead to injury, both for the person lifting and for the patient being moved. Strong balance enables caregivers to handle the load more safely and with less risk of muscle strain or back injury. This principle is foundational in safe manual handling practices, ensuring that lifting tasks can be performed more confidently and securely.