Office of Environmental

Health, & Safety

Back/Lifting 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

12 overexertion resulting in ~$9,000 in losses– 2010

12 overexertion resulting in ~ $11,100 in losses– 2011

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– 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

How much force does it take?

10 LBS

?

Biomechanics of Lifting

Biomechanics of Lifting

10 LBS

100 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?

Office of Environmental

Health and Safety862-4140

Thank you and have aSafe Work Day!