Contractor Safety Share

Break Room Planter Causes Severe Back Strain

A floor-cleaning employee was in the process of buffing the break room floor.  After finishing buffing the floor, the employee started the process of moving all of the items back into the break room.  As the employee started to lift the planter, he felt a slight pop in his back.  The employee placed the planter on the ground, waited approximately 30 seconds, and attempted to lift the planter again.  The second time he lifted the planter, he felt a sharp pain in his lower back and was unable to move, resulting in a severe back strain.

Factors to consider at your site and/or project include, but not limited to the following:

·        Always use the proper lifting techniques.

·        Conduct a toolbox talk/safety meeting to discuss back safety and proper lifting techniques.

·        Always request assistance when lifting a heavy item.

·        If assistance is unavailable, utilize mechanical equipment such as a two-wheeler or a cart to move heavy items.

·        Always be aware of the potential weight of an object.

·        Know your lifting limitations.

• Date Contractor Safety Flash posted for all employees to review: _______________
• Safety Talk meeting date: _______________
• Full employee attendance and participation at safety meeting to review this incident (documentation required).
• Employees understand urgency in protecting themselves and others.
• Supervisors and Employees are clear which items shared in this Safety Flash are mandatory.
• Employees/Supervisors will focus on recommended actions during future work activities of a similar nature.