Â鶹´«Ã½

VIEW IN BROWSER
Â鶹´«Ã½ Environmental Health and Safety

Spotlight on Safety

VOLUME 10, ISSUE 2 | FEBRUARY 2026

Back Injury Prevention

At Â鶹´«Ã½, many teams routinely lift and move equipment, tools, and materials to keep the University running. Lifting heavy or awkward loads, however, can lead to sprains, strains, and more serious injuries, sometimes resulting in medical treatment or time away from work. Understanding the risks and using safe work practices are essential to protecting your health.

Back disorders are among the leading causes of workplace disability. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), more than one million workers experience back injuries each year, 75% occurring during lifting tasks. These injuries account for nearly 20% of all workplace injuries.

The good news: most lifting-related injuries are preventable. Planning ahead, using the right equipment, asking for help, and maintaining a neutral posture can significantly reduce risk.

If required by your school or unit, make sure you are up to date on your biennial Back Injury Prevention training in myHR Learn.

Safe lift planning

The most important part of a safe lift happens before you touch the object. Take a moment to assess the task by asking yourself:

  1. Can I use a tool? Use a dolly, cart, or pallet jack whenever possible to avoid manual lifting.
  2. Is the item heavy, bulky, or awkwardly shaped? Break it into smaller lifts, ask a coworker for help, or notify your supervisor.
  3. Is the path clear? Check for tripping hazards (e.g., cords), uneven surfaces, or other obstacles.

Safety tips

If manual lifting is required, using proper lifting mechanics is your best defense against injury:

  • Stand close with feet shoulder-width apart, one foot slightly forward.
  • Squat using your hips and knees only; keep your back straight.
  • Maintain good posture: eyes forward, chest up, shoulders back.
  • Lift slowly with your legs and do not twist.
  • Keep the load close to your body.
  • Turn with your feet, taking small steps.
  • Lower the load by squatting with your hips and knees.

The golden rules

  • Know your limits. Never attempt a lift if you are unsure of your ability to handle the load safely.
  • Ensure a secure grip and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves.
  • Handle loads within the safe zone, between mid-thigh and mid-chest height.
  • Avoid twisting while lifting or carrying. Remember 'nose over toes' and pivot with your feet to turn your entire body.

Did you know?

Holding a 10-pound object at arm’s length puts the same strain on your lower back as holding a 100-pound object close to your body!

A note on back belts

There is a common misconception that back belts protect against injury or allow heavier lifting. While back belts are intended to reduce spinal forces, there is no scientific evidence that they provide protective benefits or prevent back injuries.

Wearing a back belt can create a false sense of strength, leading people to attempt heavier or riskier lifts and ignore proper mechanics. There is no single 'safe' weight for every person or lift; risk also depends on reach distance, lift height, twisting, frequency, duration, and grip quality.

The reality: a back belt is not a substitute for proper lifting technique, mechanical assistance, or asking for help. Always know your limits and use tools or assistance early, especially for heavy, bulky, or awkward loads.

Do you want to learn more?

We want your feedback! Please complete this brief anonymous . Do you have a safety story you'd like to share? If so, please contact ehs@northwestern.edu.