4 Ways for Construction Workers to Avoid Back Injuries
Category: Back Pain | Author: Stefano Sinicropi
Construction is a physically demanding occupation. Back injuries are unfortunately common among construction workers. These back injuries can be caused by a number of factors and can severely hinder a person’s ability to continue working. For that reason, it’s important to take all the proper precautions to avoid injuries during the course of work. In this article, we are going to discuss four ways to avoid back injuries at work if you work in construction.
Practice Proper Lifting Technique
We have reiterated time and time again how important it is to lift properly. Here’s the short version – lift with your legs, and not your back. Lifting with your back is a surefire way to pull a muscle, herniate a spinal disc, or sustain another injury.
Follow All Safety Protocols
Safety rules are in place to prevent injuries, so it’s essential that you abide by them. Cutting corners can lead to serious injuries to the spine.
Ask for Assistance if you Need it
If you need help lifting or moving something heavy (like a piece of machinery or heavy materials), don’t be afraid to ask for help from a co-worker. Know your own limits and don’t try to lift something heavy if it’s too much for you.
Take Short Breaks
Take quick breaks throughout the work day. Giving your body a rest once in a while is good for injury prevention. Especially when it’s hot out, constantly pushing your body can lead to disastrous results, including injury to the back and spine.
Construction can be a dangerous profession, but following these safety tips will cut down on the risk of injury. If you do sustain a back injury on the job, make an appointment with a skilled back doctor to diagnose your condition and recommend options for treatment.