Saskia Baltrusch

218 Chapter 8 “And then you, as a human, have to adapt to the device and have to find your way.” (Martijn, Process Coordinator) Prevention of Low Back Pain Use of own techniques When focusing the conversation on dealing with low back pain at work, luggage handlers talked about the use of certain lifting techniques to deal with problems they have, but also to prevent an onset of low back pain. One luggage handler explained that: He is taking an extra step when turning and lifting at the same time, and aiming for an equal distribution of the weight to not overload one side of his body. (Rico, Luggage Handler) Less physical workload Both managers emphasized that they have less problems with their back since they stopped lifting luggage frequently. “[…] less physical work […] that does help to have less back problems.” (Martijn, Process Coordinator) Ergo coaches Another prevention method that came up in the focus group discussion, is the education of Ergo coaches. Next to their normal work, ergo coaches get trained in the prevention and reduction of physical loading. One of the focus group attendants also works as an Ergo coach. He emphasized in the discussion that: he gives advice on lifting techniques and assistive devices, but the employees have to decide themselves whether they follow this advice or not. (Pim, Ergo Coach) The team leader, who also has an advising role, explained: “[…] in the beginning we often said you have to use the lifting device, but lately, nobody does […] it didn’t help.” (Hendrik, Team leader)