Back injury awareness month at AGF Group

In the construction industry, back injuries make up a significant portion of workplace accidents. Each year, they rank among the most common injuries, affecting both employees’ health and the smooth progress of projects. At AGF Group, we decided to create our back injury awareness month, running from January to mid-February, to remind everyone of the importance of protecting their back every day.

 

“Back injuries are not minor. They are often caused by repetitive movements, poor posture or a lack of preparation. With this awareness month, the goal was clear: to create lasting habits and strengthen our culture of prevention.”
– Julie Trépanier, HSE Director – Eastern Canada

Concrete actions on the ground

To bring this initiative to life, several measures were put in place:

• HSE toolbox talks on proper lifting techniques and safe work practices
• Awareness videos tailored to the realities of our construction sites and shops
• Contest “Show us your warm-up routine”

A contest that engaged the teams

Prevention truly comes to life when employees get involved. The Armature Sherbrooke team, grand prize winner of our contest, demonstrated this with a creative and well-structured warm-up routine, proving that a simple daily ritual can make a real difference.

Take the time to watch their video here and get inspired! Their commitment shows that safety is, above all, about everyone actively participating.

Key practices to protect your back

Here are the essentials to remember for daily back protection:

• WARM UP: Preparing your muscles before your shift significantly reduces risk.
• LIFT SMART: Use your legs, keep the load close to your body, and pivot with your feet instead of twisting your back.

Lifting 50 lbs of rebar 10 to 20 feet long can put 300–400 lbs of pressure on your lower back. Posture and balance matter as much as weight.

• STAY ALERT: Watch where you’re going and be cautious of slippery surfaces (Clean, Mark, Avoid).
• REDUCE YOUR LOAD & LISTEN TO YOUR BODY: Ask for help, use proper equipment, and take breaks to avoid fatigue.

In conclusion

This awareness month reminded us of one key lesson: prevention comes to life when everyone gets involved. Shared routines, conversations and team engagement show that every action counts. By following safe practices and staying attentive, we protect not only our backs but also our colleagues and our projects. Together, let’s make safety a daily reflex.