Watch Your Back!

Many workers often suffer from back, neck and shoulder pain. Due to the nature certain jobs, it’s often difficult to avoid certain repetitive motions. However, it is still important that workers practice safe lifting and handling in order to protect their back and shoulders from injury. 

Protect against back injury by:

• avoid lifting above shoulder height (this puts extra strain on your shoulders and back) 
• don’t try to catch falling objects • whenever possible, push rather than pull (pushing allows you to keep a normal back position and puts less strain on the back) 
• avoid excessive forceful movements – Ask: is there a tool you could use instead of your body?

Practicing safe lifting habits can protect your back and shoulders from many injuries: 

• use mechanical lifting aids where possible
• employ a team lift 

If you must lift alone, use safe personal lifting practices:

• size up your load before lifting
• make sure your intended path is clear
• get help if needed
• use a dolly or other lifting aids whenever possible
• get as close to the load as possible
• avoid twisting from the waist while lifting
• use a wide and well-balanced stance while lifting
• tighten your stomach muscles as you start the lift
• keep your lower back curved and lift with your legs
• pick up your feet to turn – do not twist
• lower the load with your legs while maintaining a normal back curve (lowering loads can injure your back just as easily as lifting)