Working overtime may increase your productivity and boost your paycheque, but it can also trigger illnesses and injuries.
A study of more than 10,000 workers by the University of Massachusetts Medical School found that people who routinely put in overtime had a 61 per cent greater risk of suffering an occupational injury or illness than people who don't work extra hours. Back pain and other musculoskeletal injuries were the main overtime hazard.
"When the physical demand of the work exceeds the physical abilities of the worker, or if the work involves awkward postures for a long time, that could increase the risk of back injuries," says Patrick Ker, head of the Singapore General Hospital's Occupational Therapy Department.
Ker offers these tips to prevent back injury:
- !!Lift properly.!!
Keep your back straight, bend from your knees and hold objects close to your body.
- !!Modify your work space.!!
Store heavy items at waist height so that you can handle them with a better posture while standing.
- !!Be conscious of your posture.!!
If you stand for long periods, rest one foot on a stool occasionally. If you sit, adjust your chair to the right height and rest on the back support.
- !!Exercise regularly.!!
Simple stretches, or standing while talking on the phone, help reduce the risk of back pain or injury.
By Mars W. Mosqueda, Jr
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