‘Oh, my aching back ...’

This is an all-too-familiar phrase in many workplaces, and understandably so, because back injuries are a leading cause of lost work time and reduced productivity.

No matter what type of environment—office, warehouse, manufacturing—material handling puts stress on workers’ backs. Through education and demonstrations, businesses can teach employees how to lift, bend and move, in order to reduce back injuries.

Here are a few guidelines:
• Keep products and materials a minimum of 18 inches to 24 inches above the ground or floor, at or above knee height.
• Keep objects close to the body to avoid extending the arms.
• If possible, use containers with handles.
• It is better to push than pull materials.

For a more detailed list, and graphics that demonstrate correct lifting posture, call the program administrator for GlassInsure, NGA’s sponsored insurance program, at 800/640-7601, and ask for “Tips for Preventing Work Related Back Pain and Injury.”