Back Safety in the Workplace

MAKE-IT-SAFE MONDAY

Back injuries account for up to 20% of missed time at work. Today on Make-It-Safe Monday we are going to take a look at the major principles of safe handling that can prevent thousands of injuries.

They include Assess, Plan, Prepare, and Perform.

1)      Assess

a.       Assess the task

b.      Assess your capabilities

                            i.      Strength, height, health, etc.

c.       Assess the load

                            i.      Weight, shape, size, handles, stability

d.      Assess the environment

2)      Plan

a.       Plan the task

                            i.      What is the appropriate posture

                           ii.      Is mechanical help available

                          iii.      Are others available to assist

b.      Plan the route

3)      Prepare
a.       Prepare the load

                             i.      Can the load be split or multiple loads?

                            ii.      Cover sharp edges or corner
b.      Prepare yourself and the area

                             i.      Clear any obstacles

                            ii.      Get a firm grip

4)      Perform
a.       Use proper lifting techniques to perform the task

                             i.      Get a wide base

                            ii.      Get close to the load

                           iii.      Lift with your legs not back

                           iv.      Avoid twisting while lifting

                            v.      Use a team when necessary

As a child my father liked to tell me “work smarter not harder.” This is especially true when it comes to the safety of lifting objects. By following the principles of safe lifting and moving objects in a planned, smart way we can diminish back lifting injuries in the workplace. 

Have a great week and stay safe.

Contributed by Joe Wheatley

Demand Generation Specialist, Lift’n Buddy

Information contributed from blr.com

Thank you for your time and attention.  Let's make it safe this Monday.

Aaron M. Lamb
General Manager, Lift'n Buddy.  A Southworth Company