Staying safe and healthy on the road

By Wright Insurance Brokers

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Tips to eliminate back injuries

The contributing factors to back injuries in drivers include long hours of sitting, strenuous lifting and jumping up and down off trailers. Eliminating back injuries starts with exercising these safety precautions.

Proper lifting techniques

Wear gloves if you are lifting rough equipment.
Clear away any potential obstacles before lifting an object.
Never jump down from the bed of your vehicle, especially when carrying a load.
Get a good grip and footing. Use your hands, not your fingers, to grip the load, and position your feet so that one foot is next to the load and one is behind it.
Get under the load by bending your knees, not your back. This is the most important lifting technique to remember as bending over at the waist to reach for the object puts strain on your back, shoulder and neck muscles, and can cause serious injury.
Keep the load close to your body.
Never twist your body when you are lifting. Turn your entire body by using your feet.
Do not lift above the shoulders or below waist level.

Size up the load

Before lifting an object, check its weight. Decide if you can handle it alone or if you need assistance. When in doubt, ask for help. Moving an object that is too heavy or bulky can cause serious injury.

Generally, most men should not lift more than 17 kgs and most women should not lift more than 13 kgs. If a particular load is heavier than you can handle:

Get someone to help.
Break it down into smaller loads if possible.
Use a load mover or lifts as aids, as these tools are ready-made for heavy lifting.

Three-point contact

When entering and exiting your vehicle, always maintain at least three points of contact with the vehicle. This means having either two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand in contact with the vehicle. Do not jump down from your vehicle, as you exert approximately 12 times your body weight on your back, hips, knees, and ankles. Jumping down from the vehicle can lead to serious back injuries.

Get in shape!

People who are in poor physical condition are at greater risk for back problems. A conditioning programme that includes aerobics, weight training and stretching exercises will help you prepare your body for the rigours of lifting. If lifting is a regular part of your job, you may also want to consider wearing a back belt for added support.

Whether you require cover for owner drivers or for employees using business-owned vehicles for deliveries, Wright Insurance Brokers can help you make sure that your business is protected. Contact our team on 0818 000 080 or make an enquiry here.

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Howden Insurance (Ireland) Limited trading as Wright Insurance Brokers is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Howden Insurance (Ireland) Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, No. 973308. Registered in Ireland under company registration number 338916. Registered Office: 10 The Courtyard, Kilcarbery Park, Nangor Road, Dublin 22, Ireland. Calls may be monitored and recorded for quality assurance purposes.