Recently I have been consulting in the airline industry and some of my time is directed at working to reduce back injuries for baggage handlers. I came across a new product that has specific application for these workers.

One major airline tested this new back support belt at four of their hubs. As a result, they have issued a large blanket purchase order and are now providing the supports to all graduates of their “New Smart” program that they are rolling out at the same time.

I spoke to the manufacturer, who has conducted over 40 beta tests consisting of 1500 workers who were reporting problems. 65 percent experienced pain reduction. 30 percent stayed the same, but most of them were at a low-level on the pain scale at the beginning, rendering an improvement less likely.

Another study, conducted by the army in Afghanistan, demonstrated a 66 percent reduction in injury. Finally, I found out that the product has received the only “seal of acceptance” ever granted by the American Osteopathic Academy of Sports Medicine, something I’m sure none of the old-style – now disapproved – elastic “girdles” would have ever received.

I further found out that the supports were the subject of two peer-reviewed studies at Miami University of Ohio, where they demonstrated a positive change in spinal body mechanics. This dovetails with an earlier study from Harvard Medical School which found that a curved, firm surface pressed against the spine allowed the spine to adjust to a safer posture.

I also found out that the company has a patent on “curved and firm” wearable back supports, so no other alternative is available.

I’m not a salesman, nor do I have any interest/ownership in this company, but from a pure back injury-prevention perspective, I found this product extremely exciting.

Ergonomics seems to be a high priority with the “New OSHA,” so if you have any interest in this device, call me at (513) 317-5644 and I will give you the name of the manufacturer.