Back injuries are a common on-the-job injury that employees suffer across multiple industries. Injuries to the back are not limited to industries that require hard physical labor or heavy lifting. A person working in an office can suffer a back injury from sitting in the same position day after day, falling over a box left in the middle of the room, or lifting office supplies to place them on a shelf. All employees need to be aware of the risk of back injuries and how to prevent back injuries in the workplace.

Back Safety in the Workplace

Back safety in the workplace is very important. Back injuries can result in debilitating pain and permanent disabilities. An injury to the back can cause you to miss a substantial amount of time from work, especially if you require surgery, physical therapy, and rehabilitative therapy. Therefore, taking precautions now is the best way to prevent an occupational back injury. Below are several ways you can reduce your risk of suffering a back injury at work:

    • Stretch Before Work

If your job requires physical labor, stretch before work to elevate your heart level to increase blood flow to muscles.

    • Correct Seating Positions

When working long hours in a seated position, your posture, chair height, desk layout, and keyboard position can affect your back. Review information on how to adjust your workspace and how to sit in your chair to reduce the risk of developing a work-related back injury.

    • Use Correct Lifting Procedures

A common cause of back injuries at work is from lifting objects. When lifting an object, keep your back as straight as possible, keep the load close to your waist, avoid twisting your back, and distribute weight evenly. OSHA has guidelines for safe lifting in the workplace.

    • Regular Breaks

Take regular breaks when sitting, standing, or lifting objects for extended periods. You need to give your back muscles a chance to relax by removing the strain from those muscles.

    • Signs and Symptoms of Back Injuries

Know the signs and symptoms of a back injury and pay attention to your body. If you feel something is wrong, report the issue to your employer and seek medical treatment. Common signs of a back injury include pain that radiates to your legs, muscles aches, sharp pains, and limited range of mobility. You should see a doctor if you have any back pains to rule out other injuries or diseases, but especially if you experience chronic pain that does not ease with rest or continues to return, pain that extends to the legs, weakness, numbness, tingling, or unexplained weight loss.

Report Back Injuries to Your Employer Immediately to File a Workers Comp Claim

If you experience back pain or your back is injured in a workplace accident, report the injury to your employer immediately and request medical attention. You should receive information regarding a workers comp claim. If you do not receive notice of a workers comp claim or your benefits are delayed or denied, you need to contact our office immediately. Our Florida workers’ compensation attorneys can help you file a workers comp claim to obtain the workers’ comp benefits you are entitled to receive by law when you are injured on the job. Call The Broderick Law Firm, P.L. for a free consultation with an experienced Florida workers’ comp attorney. Contact our office today by calling 1-800-333-3903 to speak with an attorney. We represent individuals in West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale & Miami, FL.