City Considers Way To Prevent Back Injuries

In the last five years, back injuries to firefighters cost the city of Spokane nearly $234,000 in Worker’s Compensation claims.

Tonight, the Spokane City Council will consider an $82,000 contract with Professional Safeguard Response of Corte Madera, Calif., for a program designed to teach firefighters how to avoid back injuries.

Most programs aimed at preventing back injuries teach people proper lifting techniques for controlled situations, said Diana Levin, the city’s risk manager. This program teaches people how to protect their back automatically, particularly in emergency situations.

The 37 claims filed with the city since 1991 include the cost of medical treatment, vocational rehabilitation and disability pay.

Also tonight, the council will hold its third in a four-week series of budget hearings.

A briefing for residents begins at 3 p.m. in the first-floor conference room of City Hall, 808 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. The council’s briefing starts at 3:30 and the regular meeting at 6 p.m.

, DataTimes