A prospective study was performed in distribution center environments in order to determine which physical exposure measures related to a reduction in low back function. Workers in 50 distribution jobs employed in 21 distribution centers were monitored over at least a 6 month period for changes in spine function. Job exposures were monitored with a sonic-based exposure tracking system (laboratory in a backpack) that captured 197 physical exposure metrics per lift. Based upon the database containing over 60,000 lifts, a multivariate model was developed capable of predicting jobs characteristics associated with a decrement in spine function over time. The sensitivity and specificity of the model were 85% and 87.5%, respectively. These results provide valuable information for the control of risk in these environments and offer valuable insight regarding the biomechanical functioning of the spine.
