National Safety Month: Prevent Overexertion at Work and at Home

June 21, 2010
The National Safety Council (NSC) recently launched its Preventing Overexertion at Work and at Home Week during National Safety Month, an annual observance to increase education about the top causes of preventable injuries and deaths in June.

Overexertion is the third leading cause of injury in the United States. An estimated 3.5 million overexertion injuries occur every year. Most are the result of lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling or carrying. Back injuries are the most common form of overexertion in the workplace.

Prevent overexertion by:

  • Stretching and/or warming up before heavy lifting or strenuous activity.
  • Lifting with your legs bent and objects held close to your body.
  • Avoiding bending, reaching and twisting when lifting.
  • Asking a friend for help when lifting.

NSC has additional materials to prevent overexertion at work and at home. Posters, tip sheets and more are available for free download. For more information on National Safety Month, visit http://nsc.org/nsm.

About the Author

Laura Walter

Laura Walter was formerly senior editor of EHS Today. She is a subject matter expert in EHS compliance and government issues and has covered a variety of topics relating to occupational safety and health. Her writing has earned awards from the American Society of Business Publication Editors (ASBPE), the Trade Association Business Publications International (TABPI) and APEX Awards for Publication Excellence. Her debut novel, Body of Stars (Dutton) was published in 2021.

Sponsored Recommendations

10 Facts About the State of Workplace Safety in the U.S.

July 12, 2024
Workplace safety in the U.S. has improved over the past 50 years, but progress has recently stalled. This report from the AFL-CIO highlights key challenges.

Free Webinar: ISO 45001 – A Commitment to Occupational Health, Safety & Personal Wellness

May 30, 2024
Secure a safer and more productive workplace using proven Management Systems ISO 45001 and ISO 45003.

ISO 45003 – Psychological Health and Safety at Work

May 30, 2024
ISO 45003 offers a comprehensive framework to expand your existing occupational health and safety program, helping you mitigate psychosocial risks and promote overall employee...

Case Study: Improve TRIR from 4+ to 1 with EHS Solution and Safety Training

May 29, 2024
Safety training and EHS solutions improve TRIR for Complete Mechanical Services, leading to increased business. Moving incidents, training, and other EHS procedures into the digital...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EHS Today, create an account today!