News

News Release
For Immediate Release

REDUCE BACK INJURIES WITH TIPS FOR LIFTING

Toronto, ON (April 29, 2005)-Back injuries account for approximately 30-40 per cent of work absences in Canada.

Over two-thirds of back strains are caused by lifting and other exertions, that's why ACCLAIM Ability Management Inc. would like to remind people of proper lifting techniques this Occupational Health and Safety Week.

• Plan your lift.
• Make sure you have a balanced stance with feet shoulder width apart.
• Squat down to lift the object, keeping your heels on the floor.
• Use your palms to get a secure grip on your load and make sure you can maintain that grip. You don't want to have to re-adjust later.
• Lift gradually, without jerking, using your leg, abdominal and buttock muscles while keeping the load as close to your body as possible.
• Once standing, avoid twisting at the waist, this can cause strains; instead turn your entire body.

ACCLAIM Ability Management Inc. is a national leader in disability management services for over a decade. With offices nationwide they are available to provide disability management services, including workplace health and wellness assessments to employers, long-term and short-term disability carriers, auto insurers, third party administrators, solicitors and government programs.

North American Occupational Health and Safety Week runs May 1-7, 2005.

For more information contact:
Jennifer Gilbank
Public Relations & Communications
416.486.9706 x285
jgilbank@acclaimability.com
www.acclaimability.com