subject: Preventing Back Injuries In Construction Workers [print this page] It is certainly no secret that construction work puts physical stress on the body. In fact, studies show that the construction trades have a higher incidence of back injuries and muscle strains than many other occupations. This can result in a higher frequency of claims, and can impact contractors insurance, especially Workers Comp rates.
Lower back injuries have consistently accounted for about 25 percent of workday injuries in the construction trades, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pain in the lower back and joints is a major factor, and as a result, has forced many workers to retire from the construction trades and seek less demanding occupations.
About half of all lower back injuries may be attributed to lifting excessive weight or lifting incorrectly while roughly 25 percent are the result of slips, trips and falls. Workers lifting and carrying equipment or materials are often injured when they use improper techniques, twisting their bodies, standing in awkward positions, or trying to handle heavy loads without help.
Most back injuries are the result of everyday wear and tear rather than a single traumatic event. The cause is generally not a single lift but damage done over time. The unfortunate thing is, once back pain is experienced, the chances of it recurring increases greatly.
Implementing an Injury Prevention Program
To reduce back injuries on the job requires a prevention program in ergonomics. Generally, such a program should cover topics such as body posture, proper lifting techniques, exercises, and housekeeping.
Lifting Capacity and Lifting Grip
Lifting a weight that is too heavy, lifting in an awkward position, twisting of the body when lifting or doing excessively heavy work are all common causes of lower back problems. To ensure solid contact when lifting heavy objects, use the entire palm of the hand, not just the fingertips.
When unloading heavy objects, workers should:
3.Lower the load, maintaining the natural curve of the back.
4.Lower a load onto a deep shelf, put it on the edge of the shelf first and then push it into place.
When carrying heavy objects, workers should:
5.Keep lower back in its normal arched position and use leg muscles to lift
6.Maintain a good grip and keep the load close to the body
7.Do not let the object obstruct vision
8.Do not twist torso. Move the whole body as one unit
Procedures for Proper Lifting
Size up the load and make sure the path is clear
Get help as needed
Get as close to the load as possible
Tighten stomach muscles as the lifting begins
When lifting, keep lower back straight and use leg muscles to lift
Use feet to pivot. Move entire body as one unit when turning
Do not twist the back while lifting
Lower the load smoothly, maintaining the natural curve in the lower back
Exercise is an Important Component to Safety
To protect the spine, the muscles supporting the back must be both strong and flexible. Construction work strengthens some muscles while others that are not being used become shorter and weaker, creating a muscle imbalance.
A regular exercise program can help to reduce the risk of lower back injury. A pre-work stretching program is highly recommended. Warming up prepares the body for the physical work ahead and helps reduce the risk of injury.
