copyright progressive business publications back safety

Copyright Progressive Business Publications

Back Safety


Back Injuries: Sobering Facts

50% of the workforce experiences some sort of back pain each year

One in every 5 workplace injuries is a back injury, costing between $20 billion and$50 billion a year

Overexertion is the most common cause of back injuries


Structure of the Back

Vertebrae

Discs

Ligaments

Muscles

Tendons

Nerves


Types of Injuries

Strains and sprains are caused by:– Muscles or ligaments that become over-stretched

or tear

– Sudden movement or trying to lift something that’s too heavy

Overuse can lead to muscle spasms

Excessive lifting or a fall can lead to injury


Common Causes of Back Injuries

Cumulative damage over time

Repeatedly using improper lifting techniques– Bending over at waist– Twisting with a load– Reaching for elevated loads– Carrying or lifting awkwardly shaped objects

Sitting, standing or working in one position too long


Contributing Factors

Poor posture and slouching

Being out of shape

Extra weight around the middle

Stress


Proper Lifting Techniques

Plan the lift in advance

Should you get help?

Test load before lifting

Be cautious with long or awkwardly shaped objects

Make sure the load is properly packed and balanced


Proper Lifting Techniques (continued)

Stand close to load, with your feet shoulder-width apart

Squat down, bending at the knees

Use palms, not fingers, to grip the load

Lift straight up


Proper Lifting Techniques (continued)

To change directions– Do not twist

– Turn feet in direction of intended travel

When moving with load– Keep it close to body

– Watch for slip and fall hazards

To put it down, follow same steps in reverse order

Consider other lifting techniques


Avoiding Trouble Spots

Can you reduce the size or weight of the object?

What mechanical aids might be available?

Can the height of the object be adjusted?

Keep the object between your shoulder and your waist.


Preventing Back Injuries

Ask for help

Can it be broken into smaller loads?

Pace yourself

Back belts don’t help


Basic Back Care

Stretch before lifting

Give yourself time between lifts

Take rest breaks for your back

Sleep on a firm mattress

Get in shape

Use good posture


Exercises for Your Back

Wall slides

Leg raises

Front leg raises (on your back)

Partial sit-ups

Back swing


If Back Pain Occurs

Use cold packs to relieve pain (initially)

Use heat (after 48 hours)

Use over-the-counter pain relievers

Gradually begin gentle stretching

Consult physician if:

– Pain persists after resting for 72 hours – You have feeling of numbness in lower limbs


Points to Remember

Use proper lifting techniques

Know motions to avoid

Don’t overdo it - get help

Help your back by caring for it

copyright progressive business publications back safety

Documents

injury slide

long slide

safety slide

swing slide

balanced slide

use proper lifting techniques

good posture slide

improper lifting techniques