Back Care

Preventing Back Industries

Remember the three main steps:

1. Identify risk factor
2. Assess the risk
3. Take action to eliminate or minimise the risk

Common risks of back injuries are associated with pushing, pulling, lifting, lowering, carrying or moving loads, repetitive work and working in awkward positions.  It is important to remember that injuries, especially to the back, can be the result of stress and strain over time and that the immediate cause is only part of the picture.

Some ways to reduce your risk of back injuries:

• Use adjustable chairs and tables for work areas.
• Use tools with curved handles so you won’t have to bend your wrists.
• Use lifting equipment to eliminate the need to lift heavy items.
• Vary tasks to avoid repeated stress to the same muscles.
• Take regular breaks to ensure you give your muscles a rest.

Modify the object

• Can the object be made lighter or made less bulky?
• Can the shape or surface texture of the object be changed to make it easier to grip?
• Could the surface be cleaned or the edges less sharp?
• Can handles be provided, or some type of sling used to move the object?

Article taken from Small Business Working to Live. 

Modify the workplace layout

• Store heavier and frequently used items at waist level. 
• Raise work level by use of self-adjusting platforms.
• Prevent excessive bending of the back by adjusting work level.

Different actions, movements and forces.
Can lift tables be used to raise the work level to make materials more accessible?
Position all tools and materials in easy reach.
Conveyors, slides and turntables can be used to change material flow direction.

Team lifting enables load sharing. Lifting partners should be of a similar build and height and should be trained in the lifting technique.  One person should be nominated as the team leader to coordinate the lift.

Article taken from Small Business Working to Live.  OS&H Admin US Dept. of Labour www.osha.gov