Ergonomics and Lifting : Ergonomics and Lifting What is Ergonomics What causes strains/sprains Prevention


Ergonomics : Ergonomics Ergonomics is the science of fitting a job to a person Sprain is a twist to a muscle or ligament that causes pain or inflammation Strain is an overexertion or over use of a muscle that causes pain of inflammation


Causes : Causes Force Awkward posture Contact Stress (sharp edge) Repetition/Duration Vibration


Prevention : Prevention Force – create smooth paths for carts, split the weight into multiple loads, use powered tools such as forklift, nail gun, power mixer instead of mixing by hand, hug your load


Prevention: Prevention Repetition/Duration Take micro pause On break do something different – sit/stand Break up the tasks


Prevention: Prevention Contact stress – avoid kneeling on the edge of a stair, cushion hands at a keyboard, back of knees should not fall against the edge of the seat


Prevention: Prevention Awkward Positions – Wrists should not be bent Head should be looking straight head or slightly down - tilt the screen, place phone books under the computer screen Do not work above your head Twisting to lift Far Reaching to lift Cradling the phone with your head


Back Posture : Back Posture Maintain Natural Curve Work at a comfortable level


Proper Lifting: Proper Lifting Bend knees to pick up and put down


Proper Lifting: Proper Lifting


Proper Lifting: Proper Lifting Plan your lift Items blocking your way Where will you set the item down Floor surface Opening a door


Proper lifting: Proper lifting 1. Get help. Don’t try to lift heavy loads by yourself.


Proper Lifting: Proper Lifting Never bend, life and twist at the same time Use a cart, dolly or another mechanical aid when possible


Off Duty : Off Duty Stay in good health Maintain flexibility with proper stretching Moderate exercise such as walking according to Doctor’s orders Do not become overweight


Common Sense Safety: Common Sense Safety


Common Sense Safety: Common Sense Safety


Common Sense Safety: Common Sense Safety


Common Sense Safety: Common Sense Safety


Workplace Violence: Workplace Violence Verbal Abuse In Anger: Throwing things Threats Destroying property Rape Suicide Use of weapons Stalking Bombing/ arson Kidnapping Robbery


Who commits : Who commits Violent history including domestic abuse Substance abuse Fascination with weapons like guns Low self esteem Failing to perform their duties Escalating behavior


Warning signs: Warning signs Escalating behaviors – tone of voice, slamming items, throwing items, punching things Threats Nervous pacing Talking irrationally Changes in personal habits or behaviors


Deescalate a situation: Deescalate a situation Stay calm Do not raise your voice to match theirs Call for a supervisor Do not isolate yourself with this person, but attempt to remove an audience Watch your body language Walk away if the situation continues to escalate


If violence breaks out …: If violence breaks out … Leave the area – don’t be a hero Call University Police ext 2111 or 911 Give the person whatever they want- money, car, food ….except people


Prevention: Prevention Report to your manager any restraining orders Be observant of the behaviors of customers and coworkers Do not walk alone at night Know where the blue lights are Be aware of building areas that are isolated


Prevention: Prevention Do not bypass safety precautions such as propping locked door or windows Report all threats and erratic behavior to University Police Listen to your instinct – if suspicion crossed your mind it is reacting to unconscious triggers