Back injuries are a leading cause of disability and time off work. These injuries not only lead to significant discomfort and potential long-term health issues for individuals, but also result in considerable costs for employers in terms of lost productivity and compensation claims.

In the following guide, we outline the most common types of back and spinal injuries sustained in the workplace and their primary causes, and offer guidance on the appropriate steps to take should you find yourself dealing with one. By staying informed, employees and employers alike can take steps to minimise the risk of these injuries and ensure a safer working environment for all.

Types of Back Injuries

Back injuries in the workplace can be acute, short-term conditions, or they can be chronic in nature. Every case will vary in its severity and impact on an individual’s health and wellbeing. Understanding these types can help in identifying the right approach to treatment and care:

• Strains and sprains: these are the most common types of back injuries, often resulting from overexertion or lifting heavy objects improperly. A strain refers to an injury to a muscle or tendon, the fibrous cords of tissue that connect muscles to bones. A sprain, on the other hand, involves the ligaments, the tough bands connecting bones in a joint. Both conditions can cause pain, swelling, and limited flexibility and mobility.
• Herniated discs: also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, this condition occurs when one of the discs that cushion the bones of the spine (vertebrae) is damaged and presses on the nerves. It can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg, depending on the location of the herniated disc in the spine.
• Fractures: the spine can suffer from various types of fractures due to falls, impacts or severe twists. Compression fractures, where the vertebrae collapse in height, are particularly common among workers who perform heavy lifting. These fractures can lead to significant pain and require immediate medical attention.
• Chronic back pain: sometimes, what starts as an acute injury can evolve into a chronic condition if not properly addressed. Chronic back pain is characterised by persistent pain that continues for more than three months. It can be caused by untreated injuries, repetitive strain, or degenerative conditions like arthritis.

Due to the spine's important role in the body, back and spinal injuries can have a wide range of impacts, from neck pain to weakness in legs, bladder and bowel dysfunction and more. Understanding these common back injuries underscores the necessity of taking preventive measures and seeking prompt treatment to avoid long-term health issues.

Common Causes of Back Injuries in the Workplace

Identifying and understanding the common causes of back injuries will help both employers and employees to develop prevention strategies. While back and spine injuries can occur in almost any work setting, certain factors significantly increase the risk, including but not limited to:

• Manual handling and lifting: improper techniques while lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling objects are leading causes of work-related back injuries. These injuries often occur when individuals lift loads that are too heavy, twist their bodies while carrying heavy items, or work in ergonomically unsuitable conditions.
• Falls: both falls from height, such as from ladders or scaffolding, and same-level falls, such as slipping on wet floors, can cause severe back injuries. These incidents can result in strains, sprains, fractures, or more severe conditions depending on the nature of the fall.
• Impact injuries: back injuries can also result from being struck by falling or moving objects, or as a result of sudden impacts during workplace accidents. These situations can cause trauma to the spinal column and associated muscles and ligaments.
• Repetitive strain: repetitive tasks that require continuous motions, such as continuous lifting, bending, or operating machinery that causes vibration, can lead to chronic back conditions. Over time, these repetitive actions can wear down spinal structures and result in conditions such as chronic back pain or degenerative disc disease.

Prevention is key to reducing back injuries in the workplace. Employers are responsible for providing a safe working environment, which includes proper training on manual handling techniques, ensuring the workplace is free from hazards that could cause falls, and providing equipment designed to minimise the risk of back injuries.

Preventing Back Injuries at Work

Preventing back injuries should be a critical concern for both employers and employees, as these injuries can have long-term consequences and significantly affect an individual’s quality of life and productivity.

Proper training is essential in teaching employees the correct way to lift and handle materials. Techniques such as keeping the load close to the waist, maintaining a straight back, bending the knees, and avoiding twisting movements can significantly reduce the risk of injury. Employers should ensure that all employees receive regular training and refreshers on these techniques.

Employers have a legal obligation to ensure the safety of their employees. This includes conducting risk assessments to identify potential hazards, providing suitable lifting equipment, ensuring that the workplace layout minimises risks to back health, and implementing policies that encourage safe working practices. Adequate staffing levels should also be maintained to avoid overburdening employees with excessive loads.

Utilising mechanical aids such as trolleys, conveyor belts or hoists can help minimise manual handling and reduce the strain on employees’ backs. Ergonomic equipment, such as adjustable chairs and desks for office workers, can also help prevent back injuries by supporting proper posture and reducing strain.

By prioritising preventive measures, workplaces can significantly reduce the occurrence of back injuries, fostering a healthier, more productive working environment. Employers and employees must work together to implement and adhere to these practices, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all workers.

What to Do if You Experience a Back Injury at Work

Experiencing a back injury can be distressing and may have significant implications for your health and ability to work. Familiarise yourself with the steps to take immediately following an injury, as well as how to seek further support and compensation if necessary.

Here are the immediate steps you should take following an injury at work:

• Report the injury: inform your supervisor or employer about the injury as soon as possible. This report should be detailed, including how the injury occurred, the specific nature of the injury, and any witnesses. Reporting is essential for workplace safety improvements and is a prerequisite for any future compensation claims.
• Seek medical advice: even if the injury seems minor, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough examination. Some back injuries might not show immediate symptoms but could lead to significant issues if left untreated. A medical record of the injury and the treatment advised will also be valuable for any potential claims.
• Document the injury and expenses: keep a detailed record of the injury, including photographs if applicable, and all related expenses. This documentation should include medical reports, receipts for treatment, travel expenses related to medical appointments, and any other costs incurred due to the injury.
• Seek professional guidance: consulting with a legal professional specialising in personal injury claims can provide you with an understanding of your rights and the potential for compensation. Legal experts can guide you through the process, ensuring that all necessary documentation is in order and representing your interests in any claims.

JMW’s team of experts specialises in providing comprehensive legal advice and representation for individuals who have suffered back injuries at work. We understand the complexities involved in these cases and are dedicated to securing the compensation you deserve to support your recovery and rehabilitation.Taking these steps, especially legal action, will not only help in your own recovery but also contribute to preventing similar incidents in the workplace in the future.