Safety Matters: Watch Your Back

Did you know?

• A total of 1.4 million injuries and illnesses in private industry required recuperation away from work beyond the day of the incident in 2002, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor.


• Manual materials handling is the principal source of compensable injuries in the work force, and four out of five of these injuries will affect the lower back; OSHA.


• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics there was an average work day loss of 4.3 days for 2003 and 2004 due to back pain.


• overexertion in lifting according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics was eight days in 2004 and nine days in 2003.


• Back problems are found to be second only to the common cold as the greatest cause of lost workdays.

Proper Lifting Techniques

• Size up the load to be moved. Move it from side to side, forward and backward to gauge the weight. Can you do it yourself or should you ask for help? If it’s a heavy load use a dolly or forklift if you can.


• Make sure you have enough room to lift safely and have a clear path to wherever it needs to be moved.


• Establish a firm footing for balance and a stable lifting base. Stand with your feet shoulder distance apart, with one foot slightly ahead of the other.


• Keep your back as straight as possible. When preparing to lift anything keep your back perpendicular to the ground.


• Always bend at your knees, not at the waist. Slowly lower yourself using just your legs, and keep your back as straight as possible.


• As you begin to lift, tighten your abdominal muscles and lift with your legs. Let the leg muscles do the work, they’re stronger than your back muscles.


• Keep the load as close to your body as possible. When you have to turn, turn with your feet first and let your body follow. Never turn by twisting your body at your waist.

Other Alternatives

Manipulation and mobilization are used in the treatment of joint and muscle problems. Manipulation is a hands-on procedure used to restore normal movement by loosening joints and stretching tight muscles. Mobilization stretches soft tissues by moving joints through a full range of movement. For pain relief, manipulation is more effective. Treatment can be found through physical therapy, massages, or chiropractors.

The use of chiropractors is widespread, and covered by insurance, but is not always condoned by the medical community. So if you want to see if a chiropractor can alleviate your pain follow a few simple guidelines: Begin with a telephone interview to explore attitudes and normal practices. Don’t rely on a chiropractor for diagnosis, they aren’t always qualified. Try to find a chiropractor whose practice is limited to conservative treatment of musculoskeletal problems. Spinal and neck manipulations can be risky, so find someone with a good reputation and one that will coordinate with your regular doctor if necessary. If X-rays or prepayments are required, find someone else.

As always, remember that following safety precautions and using the correct lifting techniques will save you time, money, and back aches.

Additional ReSources

• Allegro Industries


• Chase Ergonomics


• Ergodyne


• Lab Safety Supply


• OK-1 Safety & Ergonomics


• OSHA


• Valeo Inc.