In Part One of Safe and Effective Lifting, the ten year examination of lifting leading to the book is described, including (a) a series of thirteen conferences in Australia and New Zealand, (b) practical analyses, and (c) group trials of lifting training. Part Two examines basic questions about lifting, leading to the selection of the safest and most effective approach - the semi-squat principles. The third part describes lifting training methods adjustable to suit the needs of different segments of the community - in the workplace, for general adults, and for school students. Limitations of recent research on lifting are outlined in the appendices.