A number of mining companies have provided back belts to their employees in an attempt to reduce low back injuries. But how effective are back belts? Scientific studies show a mixed bag of results, and even suggest some hazards associated with back belt use (for instance, they can increase your blood pressure!). This tape provides a review of recent scientific studies on back belts and what they mean in terms of whether back belts can reduce back injuries.

To order contact MSHA (http://www.msha.gov/Education&Training.htm, MSHAdistributioncenter@dol.gov)

NIOSH Mining videos can also be found on the NIOSH Videos page.