Backpack
Safety
 Lakeland
School District feels that the amount of weight carried by students in
their backpacks is an important issue that deserves serious
consideration. These guidelines are designed to help prevent
injuries related to the improper use of backpacks. Sources:
American Academy of Pediatrics; American Academy of Orthopedic
Surgeons.
Step 1:
Choose Right
·
Wide,
adjustable, padded shoulder straps – Narrow straps can dig into
shoulders. This can cause pain and restrict circulation.
·
Two shoulder
straps – Backpacks with one shoulder strap that runs across the
body cannot distribute weight evenly.
·
Padded back –
A padded back protects against sharp edges on objects inside the
pack and increases comfort.
·
Waist strap
or frame – A waist strap or frame can distribute the weight of a
heavy load from the shoulders and back to the pelvis.
·
Lightweight
backpack – The backpack itself should be made of lightweight
material and should not add much weight to the load.
·
Sturdy and
appropriately sized – Some manufacturers offer special
child-sized versions. These packs weigh less and have shorter
back lengths and widths so they do not slip around on the
back. If lockers are available, backpacks should be
appropriately sized to fit in lockers.
·
Rolling
backpack – This type of backpack may not be a cure-all and is
allowed at the discretion of each school’s principal. Remember
that rolling backpacks still must be carried up steps/stairs and
usually require lifting at some point during the day. They can
be cumbersome and can cause accidents, especially when large
groups of students are transitioning in common hallways.
Pushing the handle all the way down when entering school helps
eliminate accidents caused by tripping.
Step 2:
Wear Right
·
Always use
both shoulder straps and wear the pack on the back rather than
over one shoulder.
·
When the
backpack as a waist strap-use it.
·
Tighten the
straps so that the pack is close to the body-snug, but not too
tight. The straps should hold the pack two inches above the
waist, keeping the top of the pack just below the base of the
skull. Do not carry the pack low near the buttocks.
·
Do not lean
forward when walking. If this is necessary, there is too much
weight in the pack.
Step 3:
Pack Right
·
The backpack
should never weigh more than 20 percent of the student's body
weight. This figure may vary depending on the child’s body
strength and fitness. Sources: American Academy of
Pediatrics and American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons
·
Organize the
backpack to use all of its compartments. Pack heavier items
closest to the center of the pack.
·
Prioritize
the contents. Carry only the books needed. Leave unnecessary
items at home.
·
Pack bulky
items so they do not contact the back. Use pockets and
compartments for oddly shaped items.
·
As applicable
to schools with lockers, students are allowed to stop at lockers
at a minimum of before and after school and before and after
lunch. Carry only books needed between stops at lockers.
·
Classroom
books may be utilized when available in order to eliminate
carrying books.
·
Consideration
will be given to those students who have official notification
by a physician of a medical need for a second set of textbooks.
Step 4:
Lift Right
- Face
the backpack.
- Bend
using both knees. Do not bend over at the waist when wearing
or lifting a backpack.
- Lift
the backpack by using leg muscles and keeping it close to the
body; not by bending over with arms extended.
- Learn
abdominal and back-strengthening exercises to build up the
muscles used to carry a backpack.
- Ask
physician for advice.
The
information contained in these guidelines should not be used as
a substitute for the medical care and advice of a physician.
There may be variations in treatment that a physician may
recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.
Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics
American
Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons
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