Uplifting Advice
Whether it’s equipment or a box of copy paper, most of us face lifting chores regularly on the job. And unfortunately many of us face it badly. OSHA reports that one in every five disabling work-related injuries or illnesses is a back injury. In fact, back pain afflicts eight of 10 Americans. The most common back problems result from strained or pulled muscles and can affect almost one of every two people sometime during their lifetime. Once the back is damaged, it is more susceptible to repeated injury.
The National Safety Council suggests the following basics for safe lifting:
Pick your position: The closer the object is, the easier it is to lift. The more you bend and reach, the more you stress and tire your back. Lift the load straight up slowly, avoiding fast, jerky movements. Remember, setting the load down is just as important as picking it up.
How big is it? Test the weight of the object by trying to tilt it up. If it’s difficult to move, it’s too heavy to lift alone. Get help when you need to or use a hoist.
How often do you have to lift it? Repetition of even the easiest task can strain your muscles, tendons, ligaments and joints. The right design of your job can help reduce lifting tasks.
Don’t twist and shout except on the dance floor. Twisting your back as you lift strains the muscles that support your back. Avoid twisting as you lift to keep your back strong. Never lift or carry a load above your head or on the side of your body.
Get a good grip: The more awkward and bulky the load, the greater the stress on your back. Make sure the load is balanced and even. Lifting handles can optimize the angle of the wrist, the position of the hand and the strength of the grip.
Firm footing: Working on dangerous surfaces can tire muscles and contribute to injury. Keep your feet apart to help balance. Put one foot slightly in front of the other. Shoes with non-skid soles and reinforced toes can help overcome uneven or slippery surfaces.
Stay strong: Eat healthy, stay hydrated, walk straight and tall, exercise regularly, stay lean, and keep control of the stress in your life.
A healthy back is worth the effort of good lifting habits.
Please click the link below for a video on back safety.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LaFoZR3gd44&list=PLk9pRPTTGrvBAWTu2jbrIYJLESHfvDg5t&index=8
Remember to call WorkPartners with any non-life threating injury 24/7/365.
