|
|
Work Related Injuries
|
What to do if you have suffered a Work Injury
Of course it is hoped that no members are injured at work. However the
reality is that occasionally members do get injured at work.
OHSA standards recommend these steps.
STEP 1:
Inform your Supervisor/Employer
STEP2:
After you notify your supervisor/employer of the injury, you should
fill out an accident/incident report form or it can be done verbally
with the documentation to follow.
STEP3:
Get Medical Attention
If you have a life threatening injury, go to the emergency room
STEP4:
Return to Work Statement
Before leaving your Doctor’s Office or ER get a work statement recommending.
*Return to work without restrictions
*Return to work with restrictions
*Do not return to work
STEP5:
Contact your Supervisor
Present your Return to Work Statement
Discuss any work restrictions
You should report all incidents/accidents even if there was no injury
so as the employer can be aware of a possible injury or that you may
have an injury that you don't know about at the time. It does not
matter how small the injury is (eg stubbing your big toe or sticking
your finger with a needle) you should report it. These types of
incidents may lead to complications in the future.
|
| |
Tips on Preventing Back Injuries Three out of five adults in
Hawaii will experience significant low back pain sometime during their
life. Work-related back injuries are the Hawaii’s number one
occupational hazard.
Are you at risk?
You are most at risk for back pain if:
your job requires frequent bending and lifting
you must twist your body when lifting and carrying an object
you must lift and carry in a hurry
you are overweight
you do not exercise regularly or do not engage in recreational activities
you smoke
The American Chiropractic Association and the American Academy of
Orthopaedic Surgeons have developed tips to help you reduce your risk
of back pain. Whether you are lifting and moving a person or a heavy
object, the guidelines are the same.
Plan ahead what you want to do and don't be in a hurry.
Spread your feet shoulder-width apart to give yourself a solid base of support.
Bend your knees.
Tighten your stomach muscles.
Position the person or object close to your body before lifting.
Lift with your leg muscles. Never lift an object by keeping your legs stiff, while bending over it.
Avoid twisting your body; instead, point your toes in the direction you want to move and pivot in that direction.
When placing an object on a high shelf, move close to the shelf. Do not
stand far away and extend your arms with the object in your hands.
Maintain the natural curve of your spine; don't bend at your waist.
When appropriate, use an assistive device such as a transfer belt, or a sliding board when moving heavier objects.
Do not try to lift by yourself something that is too heavy or an awkward shape. Get help.
How to prevent back pain
Use the correct lifting and moving techniques.
Exercise regularly to keep the muscles that support your back strong and flexible.
Don't slouch; poor posture puts a strain on your lower back.
Maintain your proper body weight to avoid straining your back muscles.
|
| |
|