In the USA, an average of 125,000 back injuries due to improper lifting occur each year. One back injury alone can cause a worker to lose an average of 22 work days annually. Millions of precious man hours of production are lost each year and much needless pain and suffering result from back injuries caused by improper lifting methods.

Who is better qualified than your chiropractor to explain the best lifting techniques to you or your workers? Your chiropractor has had extensive training in the problems and correction of the spinal column. He knows the best lifting techniques to use to avoid back injuries. Most of the time, workers seek a chiropractor's aid only after the damage has been done, when they are in a doubled up position and can hardly move.

The best way to teach plant safety is to actually provide workers with a live demonstration. Your local chiropractor will probably he pleased at the opportunity to speak at a plant safety meeting or at a Union meeting. By the use of blackboard diagrams and actual demonstrations, he can best instruct workers in the proper ways to lift and carry heavy objects.

In the meantime, here are some do's and don't's for lifting objects:

DON'T LIFT LIKE THIS, with your back bent, body stooped over and arms out­stretched with the object away from your body. Movements like these will throw you off balance, and may result in serious injury.

DO LIFT LIKE THIS. Pick up an object like this: Squat down, bend your knees, keep your back straight, and your arms close to your body. This way you can get the best leverage and let the larger, stronger muscles of your legs, thighs and buttocks do most of the work.

When carrying an object the same rules apply: Don't bend your back or carry the object away from your body.

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A Flying Doctor Production Dr. Peter McClean Millar

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