Comparison of cumulative low back loads of caregivers when transferring patients using overhead and floor mechanical lifting devices

Interpretation. A large proportion of the time to complete the transfer and cumulative loads occurred during phases that involved only the sling and not the mechanical component of the device. Overhead lifting devices were shown to have lower spinal loads during the transport phases. The results of this study have implications for the use and selection of mechanical lifting devices as part of a strategy to reduce back injuries.