Back Safety (PSA Radio Script)

Oh! My back is killing me!!! How often have you or your co-workers said this?

We tend to take our backs for granted until we are in pain! Statistics show that such strains are the most common among workers especially in California agriculture where bending and lifting are common work tasks. Back problems are costly. This includes taking off precious work time. Medical experts say that back injuries have little to do with the weight of the lifted objects and everything to do with how they are lifted.

Here are four things to remember before you bend or lift an object.

One: If the object is too heavy get help.

Two: Before lifting move as close to the object as possible.

Three: Bend your knees and lift with your legs gradually and slowly.

Four: To change directions turn your feet. Never twist your back.

These tips also apply to setting objects down.

Remember it's your back...don't take it for granted.

This message is brought to you by the Agricultural Health and Safety Center, Applied Behavioral Science of the University of California at Davis.