A back injury with a preclusion for heavy lifting takes what standard rating?

• A. 10%
• B. 20%
• C. 30%
• D. 40%

Answer: (B)

In California workers’ compensation, a back injury that results in a preclusion for heavy lifting fits a specific sp increment on the spine rating schedule. When the impairment leads to an explicit inability to perform heavy lifting, the fixed permanent disability rating assigned is 20%. This rating reflects a moderate level of functional limitation from the back injury without implying complete loss of function.

Lower numbers would correspond to milder impairment with less functional restriction, while higher numbers would require more extensive impairment or additional factors such as radiculopathy or multiple sites involved. The 20% rating is the standard mapping for a back injury with a preclusion for heavy lifting.