It is much easier to preventing a back injury than repairing one. The ability to sit, stand, walk, or run, uses your back constantly, so taking care of it is critically important. This is a very common injury caused by activities on and off the job. Some of the common causes of back injuries are carrying, lifting, reaching and twisting. Do not attempt to lift heavy objects by yourself. Get someone to help you, use a hand truck or other equipment that will make the job easier.
Before lifting:
- Test the load. Push the object with your hands or feet to see how easily it moves.
- Just because the object is small does not mean it is light.
How is it packed?:
- Loosely packed boxes can cause the weight to shift.
Is it easy to grip?
Is it easy to reach?:
- Is it on the ground or at arm’s reach?
- Do all the lifting with your arms and legs, not your back.
When lifting:
- Stand close and face the object with both feet at shoulder width and one foot a little ahead of the other for balance.
- Keep your back straight and your stomach tight.
- If it has grips, grab the object tight with both hands, not just with the fingers.
- If no grip, place one hand on the bottom and the other hand near the top.
- Keep the object close to your body with your arms next to your side.
- Do not rest the object on your stomach because it can bend your spine backwards.
- Lift with your legs not your back.
- Carry the object between your shoulders and waist for less stress on your back muscles.
- Never twist your back while carrying the object. Turn your whole body instead.
- The object should never block your view.
- If there is a doorway, make sure it will fit before you attempt going through.
- Wear shoes or safety shoes when handling all objects. Loose clothes should not be worn because they may become tangled or caught on something.
- Do not rely on a back belt to protect you. Safe lifting practices can help protect you from injury.
