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Latest Study Lends No Support by A hot topic for debate in both management and labor circles alike is whether back belts truly reduce the frequency of back injuries among workers. It is safe to say that for as many studies done over the years that have come to the conclusion that back belts do help, there are an equal number of studies that have concluded that the use of back belts do not reduce the chance of back injury. In an attempt to resolve this long contested matter, the National Institute of Safety and Health (NIOSH), in conjunction with the Centers for Disease Control, conducted a two-year study on about 14,000 Wal-Mart employees at 160 locations. It focused in on workers who were required to lift or move merchandise as part of their jobs. Interviews revealed their back belt wearing practices, work and non-work activities, personal characteristics, work record, and job satisfaction. The survey concluded that there was little difference in reported injuries, pain, or compensation claims among those who wore belts and those who did not. The report was praised by many as being the definitive study to end all controversy. Nevertheless, the findings were quickly assailed by a leading manufacturer of back belts, who claimed that accepted scientific methods while conducting the survey were not adhered to. This attack, and others like it, was expected. The findings of this new study was in line with NIOSH’s previous stance, i.e. not recommending the use of back belts to prevent injuries among workers who have never been injured. NIOSH contends that back belts could subject workers to a false sense of security, leading workers to believe that they can lift more when wearing a back belt. They had also gone on record previously that they feel there is little evidence that belts remind workers to avoid awkward postures or heavy loads. Also, while there may be some evidence that belts provide back protection in twisting situations, they appear to be of little help when bending forward. It is interesting to note that NIOSH also concluded from the data compiled in this recent study that back belts do not negatively affect the back health of workers. Of course, NIOSH, OSHA and others have long maintained that the best way to eliminate workplace back injuries is through a comprehensive safety and health program that creates a workplace ergonomically advantageous to the reduction of back strain. So, what should you do? This is a matter of personal choice. A good recommendation might be to first consult your doctor. I have a chronic back condition, and my doctor recommended against the use of a back belt. However, if based upon a health care provider’s advice you decide to wear one, just remember to wear it correctly. A loose fitting belt with straps hanging off the shoulders, especially when working with heavy objects, obviously defeats its purpose. This happens all too frequently … just look around the work room floor in your facility and you may see what I mean. |
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