Back/Lifting Safety
Office of Environmental Health, & Safety
Objectives
Learn what makes up our back Understand biomechanics of lifting Understand your risk factors Learn what you can do to protect yourself Know where to go with any questions
Back Injury Facts
According to the Department of Labor: – – –
There are almost 1 million back injuries per year They account for approximately ¼ of total Workers Compensation claims filed Nearly 80% of the general population will suffer back pain at some point in their lifetime.
UNH Injury Facts
Dining Services –
2009
–
2010
–
–
12 overexertion resulting in ~ $11,100 in losses
2011
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12 overexertion resulting in ~$9,000 in losses
8 overexertion resulting in ~$2,000 in losses
Averaging ~10% of claims Averaging ~15% of losses
The Spine
Consists of three major parts Made up of discs and vertebrae Structural support for body
7 Cervical
12 Thoracic
5 Lumbar
The Spine
Base attachment for muscles, tendons, ligaments Protects the spinal cord Provides flexibility for motion Is bodies shock absorber
The Spine
Vertebrae/Disks –
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Vertebrae protect the spinal cord and nerve roots Discs provide a cushion between each vertebrae and allow the back to flex and bend
Disc
Biomechanics of Lifting ?
BS 10 L
How much force does it take?
Biomechanics of Lifting
Biomechanics of Lifting 100 LBS
10 LBS
With fulcrum moved we now have a 10:1 ratio
Biomechanics of Lifting
Average torso approx 105 lbs Lifting 10 lbs 105 lbs + 10 lbs = 115 lbs x 10 = 1150 lbs of force exerted on spine!
Biomechanics of Lifting
Increasing risk factors can lead to injuries
Risk Factors for Lifting
Weight of object Size of object Location of object – –
Reach to get Bend to get
Material Handling – –
Lift/Carry Push/Pull
Risk Factors for Lifting
Twisting while lifting Awkward Postures
Preventative Measures
Weight and size of object – – –
Mechanical device Get assistance Make smaller loads
Preventative Measures
Location of objects – – –
Proper placement Safety stairs for access Stack/store neatly
Preventative Measures
Material handling – – – –
Proper lifting techniques Push don’t pull Use elevators Plan the lift
Where it is Path of travel Where it is going
Preventative Measures
Proper lifting technique – – – – –
Think before you lift. Do I need to lift this? Is it too heavy or awkward to lift alone? Should I use a mechanical device such as a cart or dolly? Can I split the load?
Preventative Measures
Proper lifting technique –
Squat down with back straight, knees bent, & feet shoulder width apart
– – –
Avoid bending at the waist
Grasp the object Bring it close to your body Slowly rise and let the thigh muscles do the lifting
Preventative Measures
Twisting/awkward postures – –
Pivot and turn with feet Remember the mechanical advantage?
– –
Proper lifting technique Proper placement of items Do not bend over objects
Provide handles Purchase/use smaller sizes
Preventative Measures
Stretching and exercising – – – – – – –
Improves muscle strength, reduces muscle tension Improves circulation Reduces anxiety, stress, and fatigue Improves mental alertness Decreases the risk of injury Makes your work easier Makes you feel better!
Summary
Think before you lift anything Make sure your path is clear Get help (mechanical device or another worker) if necessary Keep your back straight and head up during a lift Keep your body in good shape, it will lessen the likelihood of an injury!
Summary
Your back is used for both work and play. Protect it at work and at home. Questions?
Thank you and have a Safe Work Day! Office of Environmental Health and Safety 862-4140