An apparatus and associated method for lifting a workpiece. An upright frame operably supports a lead screw for selective rotation. A carrier threadingly engages the lead screw so that rotation of the lead screw in one rotational direction linearly advances the carrier in a lifting direction and rotation of the lead screw in the opposite rotational direction linearly advances the carrier in a lowering direction. A mechanical power inlet is adapted for receiving an input torque from a user. A mechanical power transmission assembly has a first gear fixed in rotation with the mechanical power inlet and a different second gear fixed in rotation with the lead screw, the first and second gears sized so that the input torque imparted on the first gear is less than an output torque imparted by the second gear to the lead screw.