Case Studies

for
for the
the

HOSPITALITY AND
HEALTHCARE
SECTORS
Prepared on 8 November 2006
Please note that all cases are shared for learning purposes
only and in no way implies any liabilities on any parties.

WSHAC Workplace Safety & Health Advisory Committee

© 2006 WSHAC
 2

Case Study 2

Back Injury

WSHAC Workplace Safety & Health Advisory Committee

© 2006 WSHAC
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Brief Description
Date July 2002
Work Patient
Process Handling
Casualty Back Injury

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© 2006 WSHAC
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Synopsis

Nurse was referred to the Joint Tan Tock

Seng Hospital Work-Related Musculoskeletal
Disorders Clinic by the attending doctor.

Worked in rehabilitation ward in 2002 and
developed sudden onset of low back pain.

Since then, the back ache persisted.

WSHAC Workplace Safety & Health Advisory Committee

© 2006 WSHAC
 5

Observations and Findings

Frequent lifting and
transferring of
patients

Incorrect lifting
techniques (poor
posture adopted -
bending and twisting
of back)

Constrained working
space

WSHAC Workplace Safety & Health Advisory Committee

© 2006 WSHAC
 6

Root Cause Analysis

Evaluation of loss Temporary

Type of contact Patient Transfer
Immediate cause Frequent lifting of patients
Basic cause Incorrect lifting techniques
Failure of SMS Currently not a requirement

WSHAC Workplace Safety & Health Advisory Committee

© 2006 WSHAC
 7

Corrective Measures

Re-emphasis on correct posture during patient
lift - bend knees and keeping back straight

Use mechanical lifting device where applicable

WSHAC Workplace Safety & Health Advisory Committee

© 2006 WSHAC
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THE END

WSHAC Workplace Safety & Health Advisory Committee

© 2006 WSHAC