Courtesy – total-training
When a worker gets involved in dangerous manual jobs, he/she is prone to workplace injuries. Such tasks require applying force to pull, lower, push, carry, or lift objects. And, if you are frequently or incorrectly doing a manual job, you are putting yourself at risk of MSD. It can cause problems with arms and shoulders, neck pain, and lower back pain among others. Here, we will discuss how to protect yourself from such injuries.
Reducing or eliminating MSD risks requires considering the dangers of manual work while planning the job. To enforce control measures, you should follow the hierarchy wherein levels are created from high to low protection and reliability levels. However, a control measure can either be individual or combine multiple measures into one.
As a worker, eliminating dangerous manual tasks whenever possible or minimizing the risks becomes your duty. You can do this with mechanical help or small changes to the work process, supported by appropriate training.
How to avoid manual handling injuries?
- Check and plan for risks to yourself and other members.
- Then, check your position and balance.
- Use your legs while lifting things. Don’t jerk while lifting and let the item move smoothly. Also, take a rest for some time if required.
- Move from your feet while transporting a load. Don’t twist. Maintain the heaviest load part against the body.
- Make sure that another person can see you. Also, wear PPE (personal protective equipment) kit if required.
On top of all, ensuring proper participation in a manual handling awareness course can help improve productivity with minimum risk.
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