Masonry Magazine July 2005 Page. 23
BLS
Statistics
UP AND DOWN, TWIST AND TURN, RAISE AND LOWER. Most of us make movements like this every day, but when masons make these repetitive motions continually throughout the workday, back pain can occur. Constantly bending and lifting brick, block and stone can create stress on even healthy backs.
Back pain can be caused by repeatedly lifting materials, awkward positions, sudden movements, lifting and twisting at the same time, and bending over for long periods. Other factors that may contribute to back pain are poor posture, poor physical condition, stress and repetitive trauma. The most common causes of lower back pain are sprains and strains, which are often triggered by improper lifting.
For masons, mason tenders and laborers, the job isn't going to change, so you will continue to lift, twist and perform those repetitive motions. However, there are things you can do to be more proactive.
Think and Look Before You Lift
Many back injuries can be avoided by simply creating a good plan of action. These tips will help you and your crewmembers prevent or reduce back injuries before you even begin to lift:
Size up the load-Before you lift an object, test the weight by lifting one of the corners. If the load is too heavy or awkward, get help from a co-worker or use a mechanical lifting device. If you must lift it, make sure you can handle the weight.
Determine the lifting position-The more you bend and reach, the more stressed and tired your back will become. It is harder to lift objects that are far from your body, so the closer the object, the easier it is to lift.
Bend at the knees - This is the single most important rule to follow when lifting moderate to heavy objects. Professional weightlifters can lift tremendous weights because they lift with their legs, not their backs.
Get the right grip-The stronger your grasp, the more stable the lift will be. Stress in your back is increased when the load is awkward, bulky, heavy or hard to grasp.
Stay strong-Eating right and getting regular exercise will help you keep your strength and flexibility. Learn to control stress.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), sprains and strains most often involving the back accounted for 43% of the 1.3 million injuries and illnesses in private industry that required recuperation away from work beyond the day of the incident in 2003.
When sprains and strains, bruises and contusions, cuts and lacerations, and fractures are combined, they accounted for nearly two-thirds of the cases with days away from work.
Sprains and strains were the leading type of injury or illness in every major industry sector in 2003, with 33% of these cases occurring in the trade, transportation and utilities major industry sector.
Constantly bending and lifting brick, block and stone can create stress on even healthy backs.