More than one million workers suffer back injuries each year. Back injuries accound for one of every five workplace injuries.

However, if you shift the fulcrum to one side, it takes much more force to lift the same object. Your waist actually acts like the fulcrum in a lever system, and it is not centered. In fact, it operates on a 10:1 ratio. Lifting a ten pound object actually puts 100 pounds of pressure on your lower back.

When you add in the 105 pounds to the average human upper torso, you see the lifting a ten pound object actually puts 1,150 pounds of pressure on the lower back

Given these figures, it is easy to see how repetitive lifing and bending can quicly cuase back problems. Even leaning forward while sitting at a desk or table can eventually lead to back related problems.

Avoid Lifting and Bending Whenever You Can

Place objects up off the floor. If you can set something down on a table or other elevated surface instead of on the floor, you won't have to reach down to pick it up again

Raise/lower shelves. The best zone of lifting is between your shoulders and waist. Put heavier objects on shelves at waist level and lighter objects on lower or higher shelves

Use carts and dollys to move objects instead of carrying them yourself. (It is better on your back to push carts than it is to pull them.)

Use cranes, hoists, lift tables and other lift assist devices whenever you can

Avoid lifting over your head, and avoid reaching across a table or out of the back of a truck

Avoid working in awkward, uncomfortable positions on tasks that require you to bend over for long periods of time (i.e. gardening). Also avoid sitting or standing for too long without shifting.