According to CCOHS, about 75% of workers who lift, carry, push and pull suffer back pain at some time. September 1 is a common moving day, and not just for students! I thought we should focus some “ergo energy” on that activity. Moving tasks mimic everyday workplace material handling (lifting, carrying, pushing), so feel free to share these amongst your colleagues.
Here are five tips to help with a safer move.
- Be transparent.
Pack in clear bins or label clearly. Knowledge of a box’s contents can save you hours of time when unpacking, and can also help everyone who handles it to use the most appropriate lifting techniques. Label the boxes of books as “heavy”. Disassemble beds and furniture to make the weight more manageable.
- Many hands make light work.
Advertise and provide exceptional snacks to reward a huge crew – a small price to pay to get the job done safely. Encourage your crew to take breaks during the day, and make an “event” of it! Give out T-shirts that say, “I like to move it, move it!” What’s the worst that can happen if you get too many people? You’ll be done early!
- Get the gear.
Don’t try to move without carts, dollies, and straps. The carts will save your energy for lifting – don’t carry stuff that can be transported on wheels. The straps free up your hands to maneuver awkward loads – they take some practice but you’ll be glad you took the time to figure them out.
- Plan your route.
Book the freight elevator in advance. Make sure you keep stairs and landings clear for large and awkward items.
- Use ergonomic work strategies.
Yes, you know to bend your knees and keep your back upright. But also:
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- Look for the most secure, comfortable place to grip. You can lift a lot more with your hands firmly around a handle than you can when you’re struggling to maintain control.
- Lift with the feet staggered, not close together.
- Get help for heavy or awkward loads.
- Get as close as possible to the load before lifting it, and carry it right against your body.
Moving day is just one example — but the same strategies apply in warehouses, offices, and retail. Share these tips with your crews to prevent injuries year-round.
Better yet, create some structure around the tips you encourage people to use by following a coaching plan, like these: https://taylord-ergo.myshopify.com/collections/micro-learning-5-minute-hands-on-ergo-training