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Back Safety—What You Don’t Know Can Hurt You!

Back injuries can be extremely painful and long-lasting. According to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics, the back injuries of more than 1 million workers account for nearly 20 percent of all injuries and illnesses in the workplace.

Safety Procedures Can Prevent Workplace Accidents

When lifting, utilizing safe lifting procedures and safe practices can help prevent injuries in the workplace. However, workers don’t always practice these safety techniques and are risking personal injury. Worker back injuries are most commonly caused by lifting and trying to carry weight that is beyond their means.

Some common types of on-site back injuries are:

  • Strain—To force a part of one’s body or oneself to make a strenuous or unusually great effort.
  • Sprain— A stretching or tearing of ligaments, the fibrous tissue that connects bones and joints.
  • Herniated Disk—This can occur through the loss of the spine’s cushioning ability from strain.

Workers who do not utilize safe work practices associated with back injury prevention can obtain an injury. Other factors that could cause injuries with workers in obesity or poor physical condition. All workers should be encouraged to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Some companies are providing wellness programs to their workers to help with these efforts.

Here are some safety tips to help prevent back injuries in your workplace:

  • Always try to keep your upper body upright when lifting.
  • Objects should be kept close to your body when you are lifting or carrying them.
  • Never pull, always push whenever possible.
  • Avoid sudden and quick movements.
  • Ensure you have enough room when lifting objects.
  • Seek help from your team members before you try and life a heavy load.

Remember, if you are straining to pick up or carry a heavy load you are overdoing it. If the load is too heavy you should seek assistance.

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