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A Balance for Optimization

JobDemands

WorkerCapabilities

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Higher Production

Higher Quality

Compliance

Lower Compensation Costs

Careers/Employment Longevity

Safe Working Conditions

Quality of life

Morale

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Acute:◦ Result from a one time event

Cumulative:◦ Result from repeated wear and tear;

however, a specific event may have been “the last straw” upon a previously weakened system and thus give the appearance that the problem is acute rather than chronic. {Stephen Konz. “Work Design; Industrial Ergonomics”, Third edition. 1990}

Tendonitis Tenosynovitis Trigger Finger Epicondylitis Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

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MUSCULAR SPINAL

Safe Lifting Techniques

There are several basic rules of lifting and moving that can help prevent back injuries:

• Lift with your legs, not your back; this is because your legs muscles are larger and better positioned over the hips and knees to provide this activity.

• Do not twist; instead, always position your hips and feet toward the object you are lifting or moving.

• Maintain the natural curves of the neck, upper back and lower back while lifting, moving, and even sitting.

• Keep objects close to your body; this reduces the leverage on your spine.

• Push, rather than pull when possible. Pushing naturally places your legs in a position to do the work whereas pulling naturally places your back in a forward bent position.

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Repetition Forceful Exertion Direct Mechanical Pressure Static Posture Inadequate Recovery Time Awkward Posture Environmental Stressors

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• Minimize pushing/pulling• Minimize load weights• Slide objects• Lower loads rather than lift• Use gravity• Avoid double handling• Use suitable containers• Provide comfortable hand holds• Remove constraints/obstacles• Avoid placing loads on the floor

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You may now finish this safety training tutorial by completing the OSHA Assessment Quiz.