There was also no statistically significant difference between the incidence of self-reported back pain among workers who wore back belts every day, and the incidence of self- reported back pain amongst workers who wore them no more than once or twice a month. Finally, there was no statistically significant difference between the rate of back injury claims in stores requiring the use of back belts and the rate in stores where back belt use was voluntary ("FAQ: Back belts," 2001, NIOSH).
While there could be unrelated correlative factors that could create such a relationship for any one of these findings, the weight of the evidence seems to suggest that the use of back belts cannot be relied upon. To reduce back injuries, the study suggested employers should check the health history of their workers! A history of back injury was the strongest risk factor for predicting either a back-injury claim or reported back pain among employees, regardless of back-belt use ("Back belts," 1996, NIOSH).
Of course, employers cannot consult medical records. But keeping the findings in mind,...
Also, strengthening employee back muscles and other muscles involved in the tasks seem wise. It might cost less in the long run to create a physical training program for workers to minimize the risk of becoming injured and to hire an expert in ergonomics to provide advice on how to minimize injuries.
Works Cited
Back belts: Do they prevent injury?" (1996, Oct). DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 94- 127. Retrieved 26 Jan 2008 at http://www.cdc.gov/Niosh/backbelt.html
FAQ: Back belts." (2000). National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Retrieved 26 Jan 2008 at http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/backfs.html
Professional Equipment.com. (2008). Official Website. Retrieved 26 Jan 2008 at http://www.professionalequipment.com/back-support-belts
