Physical therapists by nature have a very active job that often requires lifting and reaching during routine procedures and transfers. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) identifies twisting while lifting, lifting objects far away from the body, and the bending of the back during lifting as potential hazards [1]. OSHA recommends using mechanical lifting equipment and and sliding boards (a slick board used to lower friction, allowing PTs to slide patients on a bed) in order to prevent these hazards. Both of these items were at the facilities we shadowed. A Hoyer lift is used to lift heavier patients, and a sliding mat was laid down to allow for easier transfer of patients from a bed to a wheelchair.
Other potential hazards include bloodborne pathogens, slips and falls, hazardous chemicals for cleaning or topical usage, and excessive exposure to ultrasound [1]
References
[1] United States Department of Labor, Occupation Safety and Health Administration. [Online]. Available: https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/hospital/clinical/pt/pt.html. [Accessed: 25 Oct 2016].