The answer is to provide mechanical lifting aids.
This is considered the most effective method for reducing back injuries because it minimizes the physical strain on workers by using equipment to handle heavy loads. Mechanical aids such as forklifts, hoists, and conveyor belts can significantly reduce the risk of injury by taking on the bulk of the lifting work, thereby protecting workers from the physical demands that can lead to back injuries.
While screening personnel can help ensure that individuals are physically capable of performing certain tasks, it does not eliminate the risk of back injuries. It merely selects individuals who are less likely to be injured, but it does not address the root cause of the problem, which is the physical strain of lifting.
Training employees in proper lifting techniques is important and can reduce the risk of injury, but it is not as effective as using mechanical aids. Proper training can help workers understand how to lift safely, but it still relies on human effort and does not eliminate the physical demands of lifting.
Back belts are often used as a preventive measure, but their effectiveness in reducing back injuries is debated. They may provide some support, but they do not address the fundamental issue of reducing the physical load on workers. Additionally, reliance on back belts can lead to a false sense of security and potentially increase the risk of injury if workers overexert themselves.