How to prevent work injuries with Physiotherapy
Below you’ll find the top ten ergonomics principles to prevent work related injuries. Also, make sure to provide the following information to your employee and if needed consult a certified physiotherapist to help you set-up a safe work environment.
1. WORK IN NEUTRAL POSTURES
Educate your employees on the correct posture that they should work in, so that they do not cause harm to their spine, shoulders, elbows or wrists. Encourage a neutral position with proper body alignment to decrease the strain and impact on joints.
2. REDUCE EXCESSIVE FORCE
Excessive force on your joints can create potential for fatigue and injury. In practical terms, try to identify tasks that imply excessive force and think of ways to make improvements (example: reduce force on hands by producing hand holes on boxes).
3. KEEP EVERYTHING WITHIN EASY REACH
Save muscles from overexertion by keeping objects close to you.
4. WORK AT PROPER HEIGHTS
Do most of the work at elbow height except for heavier work (best done lower than the elbow). For precision work or visually intense work, it is best done above elbow height.
5. REDUCE EXCESSIVE MOTION:
Do not hesitate to use power tools instead of manual tools to reduce repetitive movements.
6. MINIMIZE STATIC LOAD
Holding the same position for a long period is known as static load. It creates fatigue and discomfort and can interfere with work. Try using an extender for tools when working overhead to minimize static load.
7. MINIMIZE PRESSURE POINTS
Continuous contact of a body part on a hard surface can be very stressful for your joints. For example, standing on a hard surface like concrete can hurt your feet. Using an anti-fatigue mat or insoles in your shoes can decrease contact stress.
8. PROVIDE CLEARANCE
Your workspace should be set-up to provide you with a clear view and enough room around you.
9. MOVE, EXERCISE & STRETCH
The human body needs to be exercised and stretched. Alternating between sitting and standing throughout the day is ideal. Make sure to give yourself breaks when sitting in the same position for extended periods of time.
10. MAINTAIN COMFORTABLE LIGHTING
To decrease eye strain and glare problems, make sure your workspace is well lit. Also be aware of how long you stare at a computer screen during the day.
Questions about ergonomics? Schedule an appointment with our team of physiotherapists.
Physio Proactive, 2018.