73 workers have injured their back in construction work so far this year.
Back injuries are often sprains/strains caused by forceful exertions, awkward postures, and repetitive motions — known as musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs).
Employers are legally required to inform workers of possible or known risk of MSI and develop safe work procedures to reduce risk.
HOW do you identify risk of MSI?
CSAM can help — our new MSI assessments use video to assess the risk level of any task in your workplace. Your company can review this report, and together we can develop a strategy to complete the high-risk tasks in a safer way. Learn more here and request an assessment here.
Administrative and engineering controls can reduce the risk of a back injury:
- Break loads into smaller units.
- Use tables, benches, or stands to bring work to waist height.
- Use carts, dollies, hoists, or other mechanical handling devices.
- Get another person to help lift heavy objects.
- Adjust procedures to include more rest breaks and/or job rotation.
Find more information in our MSI toolbox talk.
If you have any questions or would like any additional resources or consultation for the hazards on YOUR jobsite, speak to a CSAM safety advisor. Call 204-775-3171 in Winnipeg or 204-728-3456 in Brandon.
