The new BackFit Safe Manual Handling program for PPS is a joint project arranged by Josie / Programmed Injury Management for Victoria, and the VIC HSE team in response to some recent injuries.
Feedback from Epping’s Front Line Operations Team regarding the Program
The first BackFit session at Epping was a great success, with all 74 team members actively participating in stretching and safe manual handling exercises, including relaxation techniques. A follow-up training session is scheduled for February 2026.
The BackFit program aims to:
- Equip our teams with practical tools to improve posture and stretch safely at work.
- Build awareness of higher-risk activities (“the 5 Key Moves”) and demonstrate safe techniques.
- Reduce lower back injuries and encourage proactive feedback on safer work practices, including job rotation and posture.
- Prepare our people for safe work during the busy growing season.
- Foster engagement with our field experts to ensure everyone is comfortable and supported on the job.
- Assess the impact of BackFit training through ongoing feedback from participants.
The five key moves covered in the program were:
- Loading/unloading tools from work vehicles
- Kneeling and weeding activities
- Operating handheld tools (e.g., hedge trimmers, lawn edgers)
- Using leaf blowers
- Shoveling and digging tasks
Everyone took part in live demonstrations, practicing stretches and safe equipment use with input from the team. The session was highly engaging, and the team is looking forward to the next BackFit session with Pace Health Management in February 2026!
