Back Injuries
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), more than one million workers experience back injuries each year. One fourth of all workers compensation indemnity claims are a result of back injuries. Low back pain is one of the most common reason that people miss work, second only to the common cold
Warm Up to prevent injury
· Always warm up before performing any lift! All athletes warm up their body to improve performance, you should too. It is important to prepare your body for the work you will perform.
· Plan Ahead
· Know what you are lifting and how you plan to lift it
· Be aware of the weight of what you will lift
· If it is not safe to lift it alone, get help
· Use material handling equipment whenever possible
· Always get help if needed
Remember: The only thing you’ll prove by lifting more than you should is that your back is a poor substitute for a forklift. Think before you lift—it's not worth hurting your back!
Preparing to Lift
· Do you need help? Get help if needed (more people, lift equipment).
· Do you need to stretch before preparing to lift?
· Determine the load capacity.
· Determine your ability to handle the load.
· Wear safe shoes.
· Wear gloves to protect your hands if the surface is rough.
· Make sure you have a clear walkway.
Basic Lift Technique
1. Get as close to the object as possible
2. Use a wide stance with one foot forward for balance
3. Keep your back straight, push your buttocks out, and use your legs and hips to lower yourself down to the object
4. Slide the object as close to you as possible
5. Put the hand (on the same side of the body as the foot you have forward) on the side of the object furthest away from you
6. Use this basic lifting technique for small objects when you can straddle the object
7. Put the other hand on the side of the object closer to you. Your hands should be on opposite corners of the object
8. Grasp the object firmly with both hands
9. Prepare yourself for the lift by tightening your core muscles, look forward and upward, keep your back straight
10. Lift slowly and follow your head and shoulders. Hold the object close to your body as you lift.
Author: Deborah Grow, Compliance Specialist
Private Safety Consultant, Sales-Marketing Director Damon Fall Protection and Coordinator EHS Network ~ Kansas.
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