Warehouse Safety Tips | Episode 27 | You Only Get ONE Back!

Season 1, Episode 27,   Jun 22, 2020, 08:00 AM

You Only Get ONE Back!

On today's Podcast - we're going to be covering Back Safety.  So stay tuned...

Welcome to Warehouse Safety Tips!

You can find the show notes to each episode, links to the information mentioned on the podcast, the social media platforms we're on, and anything else related to the podcast at WarehouseSafetyTips.com.

If you're a seasoned Podcast Listener - this podcast is going to be different from most you listen to.  It's based around exactly what the name implies - Warehouse Safety Tips.  And since the people in that industry are busy - we know time is money, so each episode will be as short and to the point as possible.

And now that all that is out of the way - let's get to the Podcast!

I had a Chiropractor visit today - and thought it would be a fantastic opportunity to make our Podcast today about Back Safety.

When it comes to back pain - it appears I'm not alone.  As a matter of fact - you have a much better chance (80%) of having a situation where back pain affects your activity than not.  

There are close to 10 MILLION NEW Back Injuries per year!  

I entitled this Podcast "You Only Get ONE Back" - because I don't want you to be among the 80% that experience pain OR injury your back.  

There are lots of things that can contribute to pain or injury - the following are just a few:

  • Lifting 
  • Standing
  • Sitting
  • Twisting
  • Carrying
  • Reaching
  • Slipping
  • Falling

Before moving on - here's a word from one of our sponsors.

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Now back to the Podcast...

We just went over several situations that can contribute to Back Pain and/or Injury - but let's continue with ways to counteract potential issues.
  • It's not something you'll necessarily find in a manual - but it's true nonetheless.  Regardless of how strong you think you are and/or how inconvenient or unnecessary you might think getting help or using protective gear is.  ALWAYS keep safety in mind.   Again - you only get ONE back!
  • Always know what the weight restrictions are BEFORE attempting to lift items.  Some items may be deceiving or awkward - and require an additional person or machinery to lift and/or move it.  Your back and your Safety Coordinator will thank you!
  • Use machinery (Hoists, Lift Trucks, etc.) whenever possible.
  • ALWAYS wear safety braces, belts, and harnesses where applicable!  
  • When you have to reach or twist while lifting - please avoid it altogether and/or be aware that your Center Of Gravity can dramatically change.  Be certain you're doing both in the most safe manner possible.  
  • If your duties require you to stand in one spot - make sure you're maintaining great posture and have the proper gear on you.  This includes, but isn't limited to - belts, braces, and boots.  What's under you matters as well.  This includes, but isn't limited to - an area free of debris and/or slipping hazards and mats where applicable.
  • Sitting is another area you need to follow the rule of maintaining good posture and ergonomics.  You may not be lifting - but extended periods of sitting can be just as taxing on your back.  In addition to posture and ergonomics - be sure to stretch and stand throughout the day.
  • When carrying items - be sure to follow weight guidelines, have on the proper safety gear, employ another person to help if necessary, watch you footing and what's around you, avoid debris and/or spills, and be safe and careful at all times.
  • When lifting - be sure to follow weight guidelines, get close to the item you're lifting, lift with your knees and legs - and NOT your back, and keep your back straight.  Don't twist or bend while lifting.  
  • It's been mentioned throughout this Podcast - but always pay attention, have on the proper Safety Equipment, and actively avoid creating and/or being involved in debris, spills, and/or slick areas whenever possible.  Doing these things will help you avoid falling down or slipping.
  • And last - but certainly not least - take part in stretching and/or pre-shift exercises to assure you're ready for what's ahead.

These steps aren't everything you need to know - but they're certainly a great place to start in helping you protect your back.

If you visit WarehouseSafetyTips.com - you'll find the Show Notes for this episode.  

Thank you for listening to Warehouse Safety Tips - and have a SAFE day!