Proper lifting prevents back injuries

Over half of the nearly 900,000 back injuries that occur in the American workplace each year are caused by lifting. Lifting related injuries include sprains, neuromuscular related injuries and bone related injuries, mostly to the lower back.

Trying to lift items that are too heavy or lifting the wrong way causes injuries. Workers should never lift items that exceed one-third to one-half their body weight.

Before performing a lifting job, workers should determine if the item is too heavy and get help if it is. If they decide the item is safe to lift, they should do it this way:

* Plant feet firmly, get a solid base

* Bend at the knees, not the waist

* Tighten the abdominal muscles to support the spine

* Get a good grip, use both hands

* Keep the load close to the body

* Use leg muscles while lifting

* Keep back upright, in its natural posture

* Lift steadily and smoothly

* Put the weight down by keeping low back bowed in

These tips will help workers lift properly and avoid back injuries.