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Better Backs: Who is it for?

Everyone can take part in the Better Backs campaign.

There are practical things you can do whoever you are:

Employer

Monitor and analyse MSD cases to inform risk reduction strategies; use the campaign pack ULD and VDU checklists to help review risk assessments; trial equipment that will remove the need for manual handling; organise a health promotion day; run a poster campaign.

Manager

Review training materials, systems and procedures, involve staff in reviews of manual handling risk assessments.

Employee

Work with employer to review risk assessments.

Safety representative

Participate in problem solving; promote the campaign advice among members.

Trades union or employer representative

Provide forum to share information; promote campaign in newsletters.

Health professional

Promote the use of ergonomically designed workstations; provide posture advice or training; promote backcare and ULD awareness; provide leaflets on backs, healthy lifestyles etc.; encourage self-management of health and fitness.

And wherever you work:

Large corporation

Organise a conference for managers covering manual handling and the issues associated with back pain and ULDs/promote the campaign among your business partners and subcontractors; work with business partners to identify and address common areas of concern/develop a rehabilitation programme for staff returning to work after illness or injury.

Small to medium business

Use the campaign pack checklists to help you review workplace assessments; promote the advice on staying active with back pain.

Professional body

Promote the campaign among members via your professional journal.

Trade association

Facilitate the sharing of best practice within your industry sector; arrange trials of manual handling equipment for members.

the voluntary sector, offering support and information

Display or promote information on back pain and ULDs

Find out more about what you could do.