It Is Regarding My Husband Suffering From Disc Herniation On

It is regarding my husband suffering from disc herniation on L5 .recent CT shows scoliosis and he is really n pain walking bent.gp have referred him to a spinal surgeon but couldn't get an appointment.he is going to work which needs lifting.in the mean time how can he protect his back til we get to see a doctor?is it safe to work
Pls reply
Thanks
Gigi