Back injuries are a significant concern in the workplace. Even organizations with adequate worker’s compensation insurance can see a decrease in productivity and increase in insurance costs after an employee accident. By implementing a few straightforward strategies, you can help prevent back injuries and ensure a healthier, more efficient workplace.
Here, Central’s loss control team provides expert tips for back injury prevention on the job.
9 Tips for Preventing Back Injuries on the Job
1. Assess the Weight
Before lifting, know the weight of the item. If it’s too heavy or awkward to handle alone, ask for assistance to distribute the load evenly.
2. Keep It Close
Hold items close to your body to engage your back, arm, and leg muscles efficiently. Lifting items from a distance increases strain and risk of injury.
3. Kneel, Don’t Bend
When lifting items from the floor, kneel close to the object with your back vertical. Bending at the waist puts undue stress on your spine, increasing the risk of injury.
Learn More: Loss Control Tips for Construction Companies
4. Avoid Twisting
Start turning by stepping with your legs, keeping the item directly in front of you. Twisting at the waist while lifting can lead to immediate back injuries.
5. Controlled Movements
Lower items gently and in sync with a partner if you’re working in a team. Ensure coordinated movements to protect both you and your colleague.
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6. Elevate When Possible
Whenever possible, move items at waist height. Use ladders for items stored overhead to prevent falls and excessive strain.
7. Clear the Area
Ensure that walkways are free of clutter and debris to prevent tripping hazards when moving items.
Learn More: Loss Control Tips for Manufacturing Companies
8. Training and Reinforcement
Regularly train employees on proper lifting techniques. Use hands-on demonstrations and reinforce safe practices continuously.
9. Seek Expert Help
Contact your insurance agent for safety procedure recommendations. Local medical facilities may also offer training programs and materials to educate your staff.
What to Do If an Employee Does Experience a Back Injury On The Job
If one of your employees gets injured on the job, lean on your insurance carrier for support. Top companies like Central will have systems in place to help streamline both the recovery and reporting processes.
For example, our Nurse Hotline provides 24/7 support for employees who experience an injury at work. When an employer calls the hotline, a Registered Nurse will work with them to provide appropriate medical advice and care, while also walking them through the process of reporting the injury correctly to the insurance company.
Did You Know: Having an RN on call to provide custom care recommendations allows for a more appropriate and personalized treatment plan for injured employees. This leads to a faster recovery time and fewer weeks spent out of work.
The Benefit of Working with Loss Control Experts
These back injury prevention tips are crucial for all employees, regardless of their role. In the nearly 150 years since Central began protecting companies and employees with worker’s compensation insurance, our loss control experts have seen the substantial impact that implementing strategies like these can have on reducing the risk of injury.
If you believe your organization could use support in this area, consider engaging with one of Central’s dedicated loss control specialists. These individuals can help with everything from providing written and video training materials, to leading safety workshops on-site with your teams. In the construction field specifically, Central has invested in this type of training for our policyholders with the creation of Loss Control Construction Specialist position. You can learn more about the benefits of working with a construction loss prevention officer here.
A little prevention goes a long way in ensuring the well-being of your team and the efficiency of your operations. Get in touch with a Central agent to learn more today.
The information provided in this blog is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, insurance, or other professional advice. It is not intended to interpret or modify any insurance policy. Coverage may vary based on individual circumstances, policy language, endorsements, exclusions, and applicable state law.
All descriptions, summaries, or examples are general in nature and may not reflect your specific policy or coverage. No guarantee is given regarding the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information. Your policy contract governs, and you should review it in its entirety to understand your actual coverage.
Nothing in this content creates a broker, agent, or advisory relationship, and you should consult your insurance professional for advice specific to your needs.
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