Know the Facts

Back injuries affect millions of Americans, and can require medical attention.  Back injuries are a leading cause of job-related injuries.  They disable more than 400,000 people each year. It costs Americans nearly $75 billion annually for medical treatment, lost wages, and insurance claims. Back injuries can significantly limit a person’s physical activity. It is also the second leading cause of missed work days and lost wages.

Using good body mechanics to lift

• Wear supportive shoes with traction
• Bend and gently stretch to get ready
• Test the load to see if you can handle it safely – if not get help from a co-worker or use mechanical aids
• Keep a wide stance and solid footing
• To improve balance, keep your heels down and turn feet slightly out
• Tighten your stomach muscles
• Do not hold your breath – exhale with the greatest exertion
• Get a good grasp on the load
• Keep the load close to your body to reduce strain
• Keep your head up and trunk tall to maintain your natural curves
• Lift steadily with your legs, not your back
• Point feet in the direction of the move, don’t twist
• Set the load down by squatting down and keeping the spine aligned More…