Injuries that accumulate.
WHY IT MATTERS
Back and musculoskeletal injuries are among the commonest causes of lost work, and they are permanent for some people.
WHAT CAUSES THEM
Lifting loads that are too heavy Awkward postures Repetition Twisting while loaded Long duration without variation
WHAT TO ASK FIRST
Whether the load needs to be moved manually at all.
WHAT ALTERNATIVES EXIST
Mechanical aids: trolleys, hoists, conveyors
Deliveries placed closer Smaller loads Redesigning the task
WHAT TO ASSESS
- The load: weight, size, shape, stability
- The task: distance, height, twisting, frequency
- The environment: space, floor, lighting
- The individual: capability, training
WHY THE INDIVIDUAL MATTERS
People differ, and a load safe for one is not for another.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH
That people are not required to lift beyond their capability.
WHAT TO PROVIDE
Aids, and enough people for two-person lifts.
WHAT TO TRAIN
Technique, but as a supplement rather than the main control.
WHY
Technique does not make an excessive load safe.
WHAT REPETITIVE WORK REQUIRES
Variation Breaks Workstation arrangement reducing strain
WHAT SEATED WORK REQUIRES
Adjustable seating Screens at appropriate height Room to change posture
WHY IT MATTERS IN OFFICES TOO
Poor workstation arrangement causes lasting injury slowly.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
People holding awkward positions Complaints of pain Absence patterns
WHAT TO ACT ON
Early complaints.
WHY
They precede the injury that does not recover.
