A comparative study of back injuries at Malta Drydocks during 1999

Abstract

This study attempts to identify those factors relevant to back injury causes, prevention at and to suggest reducing the injuries at the Malta Drydocks (MDD). This was achieved by analysing all the 1999 back injuries, as well as through interviews, observations and inspections. As in many other situations, no single universal remedy will solve such multi- faceted problems, but rather a combination of preventive strategies· taken through engineering and administrative controls, which together with ergonomic considerations will help in reducing these accidents and injuries. It is in this context that this study has endeavored to reach its objectives. Health and safety problems face obstacles which also need to be addressed through education. A change in attitude can be reared slowly and nourished gently through education, which must start at an early age in schools and continue at the workplace by means of" on-going" campaigns. This change in culture will pave the way by providing the right perspective to workers and supervisors on whom the application of Health and safety depends. Manual handling injuries are common, often serious and usually costly to the employer. Many occur during activities that have not been looked at for years, the phrase "we've always done it like that" being heard so very, very often. A systematic look at activities to identify any risks from work, including handling, can lead to reduced injury, reduced absence, greater efficiency, less waste and many other business and human benefits.