Lift safely to avoid back injuries

Workplace back injuries are a big cause of missed work days every year, but most back injuries can be prevented.

Being aware of what causes back injuries can go a long way toward preventing sprains, strains or tears and their accompanying pain and discomfort. Poor lifting techniques and overexertion are the main culprits. Here are some tips to share with your policyholders to help their employees remain injury-free.

• Pay attention to your environment and plan your route in advance when you know you need to lift and carry something.
• Keep your stability by holding the object close to your body when you lift and use your feet to create a solid base for the lift by keeping them shoulder-width apart.
• Before lifting, make sure your knees are bent, your back is straight, your grip is secure and you can see beyond what you are lifting. Let your legs do the lifting; don’t over-exert.
• If the object is too heavy to handle, ask for help or utilize lifting aids, such as work tables, wheeled carts or dollies.
• Lifting for a long period of time will increase the risk of injury, so rest when needed.
• Try not to sit or stand too long in any one position, which also can be hard on the lower back.

BrickStreet offers your policyholders a variety of safety resources to help educate their employees on how to prevent injuries, including flyers and posters to display in the workplace.

To obtain a copy of any of our safety materials, you or your policyholders can contact a BrickStreet representative or safety and loss control consultant.