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overexertion. Defining Overexertion. A non-impact injury resulting from excessive physical effort Lifting Pulling Pushing Turning Most common injuries are strains and sprains, especially of the back Affects people differently. Wielding Holding Carrying Throwing. 2. Current Data.
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Defining Overexertion A non-impact injury resulting from excessive physical effort Lifting Pulling Pushing Turning Most common injuries are strains and sprains, especially of the back Affects people differently • Wielding • Holding • Carrying • Throwing 2
Current Data • Widespread problem: • #2 nonfatal injury after falls in general population: 4.6 million medically-consulted episodes in ’06 • #1 cause of nonfatal disabling work injuries • #6 among Emergency Department visits:1.8 million in 2005 • #1 Cause of DAFW: 298,000 cases in 2006
Understanding Data Overexertion by Part of Body Workplace Data Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Understanding Data Overexertion by Detailed Event Workplace Data Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Sprain/Strain Incurred Costs Source: National Council on Compensation Insurance.
Understanding Data • Workplace overexertion injuries in decline but too high • Injury occurs in most occupations but rates highest for: • Nursing aids and orderlies • EMTs and paramedics • Laborers and material handlers • Injuries most often occur in the first 2 to 4 hours of starting work
Understanding Data • Most overexertion injuries occur in the first half of the day • Injury rates are higher among males • Overexertion injury spans all ages, but peak in the 35-44 age group • Injuries occurring at home or in the community are increasing
Solution/Prevention • Protect your back, use safe lifting techniques • Practice these basics: • Stretch and warm up before lifting • Never bend or twist the back when lifting • Never lift with arms extended • Make sure your footing is solid • Lift with your legs, not your back • Limit the amount of weight you carry • Get help to carry heavy, bulky or large loads
Solution/Prevention • Receive proper training to use tools and equipment • Keep tools and equipment in good condition • Allow enough space to work in a neutral position • Take short rests in between strenuous activities • At work, report any discomfort or injury experienced when working
Solution/Prevention • Begin each day with light warm-up exercises and stretching • Routinely exercise* to strengthen your joints without overexerting by doing low-impact exercises such as swimming, cycling or walking • Consult a medical professional immediately if you experience joint pain or discomfort *First consult with a medical professional if >35 years old or a smoker
NSC Strategy to Address Data • Document science and evaluate solutions • Develop programs • Legislation: connect national to local interests • Develop recognized expertise • Partnerships • Develop NSC public policy statements • Work the issue at every level
You Can Get Involved Draw attention to the problem • Share what you learned today and encourage others to learn more • nsc.org National Safety Council website • cdc.gov Center for Disease Control website • Promote overexertion prevention during National Safety Month (June) nsc.org/nsm • Provide training: nsc.org/train • Donate to Friends of Safety – nsc.org