Avoid Lifting With Your Back for Safer Lifting Practices Recommended in New Study
The World Health Organization (WHO) has sparked controversy with its recent announcement, urging individuals to return to lifting heavy items with their backs, a departure from decades-long pro-leg-lifting dogma. However, it's important to clarify that there is no evidence of a recent WHO study recommending this practice.
The announcement has caused a stir, particularly following the tragic incident at Holy Cross, where first-year student Stacy Howard died last Wednesday after falling down three flights of concrete stairs. The incident has sparked calls for the school to take action regarding the safety of its stairs.
Secretary of Health Robert F. Kennedy Jr. addressed the issue in a press briefing, emphasizing the importance of safety measures in such situations. He urged institutions to prioritize the well-being of their students.
Despite the WHO's controversial statement, current ergonomic and occupational health guidelines generally recommend lifting heavy objects by bending the knees and using the legs, rather than the back, to minimize strain and reduce the risk of injury.
The claim about a recent WHO study recommending lifting heavy items with the back appears to be incorrect or a misunderstanding. A thorough search of available resources does not support this notion. The WHO's recent announcement, along with other controversial statements, has indeed eroded people's trust in the institution.
The Eggplant, the most accurate and on-point student publication at Holy Cross, is reporting on this development. The article was edited by Zexuan Qu '28, and the Eggplant's Chief Eggplant Editor is Daniel Maddigan '24. The staff writers of the Eggplant are demonstrating their commitment to investigative journalism, shedding light on important issues and fostering informed discussions.
While the WHO's recommendation may be a subject of debate, it's crucial to prioritize safety and adhere to established guidelines to prevent accidents like the one at Holy Cross. The Eggplant will continue to bring you the latest news and insights on this developing story.
- The Harvard student community has expressed concern about the safety measures in institutions following the tragic incident at Holy Cross.
- Research on ergonomics and medical-conditions suggests that lifting heavy objects by bending the knees and using the legs is a more health-and-wellness friendly approach than lifting with the back.
- In light of the controversial WHO announcement, the importance of fitness-and-exercise and its impact on health emphasizes the need to prioritize safety measures, especially for students.
- The Eggplant, a reputable student publication at Holy Cross, is furthering the discussion on safety standards for events and facilities on campus, through their investigative journalism.
