In the building and renovation industries, there is always physical work to be done – you can’t avoid it.
One of the most common injuries that I see in the workplace is less obvious than you might think: manual handling related injuries.
The danger of manual labor lies within the difficulties that arise with the constant exertion of using your body. Injury is conceivable when anyone is incorrectly using their muscles to perform an array of tasks but it’s a particular danger for those who are in the construction industry, as they are constantly employing the use of their strength.
While the risk of a serious on-site injury is always possible, the constant strain that can be placed upon the back with incorrect handling practices can cause either severe pain or injury, Therefore, it is crucial to employ correct technique when participating in the day’s work.
Study the following 5 tips like the gospel; if you do you significantly reduce your chances of going home after a long day on site with painful back injury:
Courtesy of: Thetrainingandrecruitmenthouse.co.uk
Lifting
The vital information to remember when attempting to lift a heavy object is to use your legs, as they have the muscle needed to accomplish such a task. Ensuring the straightening of the upper body is necessary, for this will release tension on the spine. It is then advised to bend the knees slowly, without putting unnecessary strain on them. Now, carefully lift the item, using the legs to straighten the body and stand tall. However, when possible, do not bend at the waist, but instead squat to the floor and gradually lift the item.
Carrying
Ideally, it is best to avoid a carrying items, as the possibility of a fall is worrisome. If there is an opportunity to push, pull, or drag the item, that would be better. However, manual carry will eventually be necessary and applying the basic safety techniques will assist in preventing injury. To lower the possibility of slipping, invest a high-quality work boot that has anti-slip technology on the sole. Do not try to overexert your abilities by trying to carry something excessively heavy and ensure that the line of vision is clear. It’s also safer to carry the item close to your body, as this may lessen the strain placed on the arms.
Lowering
When ready to lower the item that is being carried, the procedure should resemble the lifting technique, but in reverse. The back should be straight and feet should be shoulder’s width apart. Using extreme caution, the knees should safely bend and the item gently released. Allow the body a few moments to release tension before the resumption of movement.
Pushing and Pulling
A frighteningly common occurrence is the use of the back muscles to push, especially the shoulders. The arm muscles should be carefully used, as the back is susceptible to injury by exhausting such intense strain. Again, the use of the legs will manage most of the item’s bulk. The body should also be leaning forward, without twisting or bending. The procedure for pulling is much the same, but naturally, the body should be inclined backward.
BEND YOUR KNEES!
Climbing
By guaranteeing a three-point contact at every given moment while climbing, the risk of falling is greatly reduced. This method is achieved by having either two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, on the latter.
One way to significantly reduce the risk of climbing related workplace injuries is to invest is a pair of great work boots: work boots are the most important form of personal protective equipment in the building industry. If you’re looking for the best work boots, visit The Work Boot Critic and read through their online review: I was able to pick up a pair of super high quality boots on sale, and i’ve been happy ever since!
Source:
https://www.bwc.ohio.gov/downloads/blankpdf/MaterialsHandling.pdf (manual handling education)
So, what do you think?
Have YOU been abiding by these rules?
Im interested to hear about how many readers have suffered from manual handling related injuries before, leave a comment!
The post 5 Ways to Eliminate The Risk Of Manual Handling Injuries appeared first on MNC Home Improvement .