Ergonomics and Long Term Care

Fitting the job/task to the worker not the worker to the job Definition Fitting the job/task to the worker not the worker to the job

Risk Factors Injuries are caused over time by repeated exposure to a combination of risk factors that include but are not limited to the following: Awkward Posture Excessive Force Repetition Other Factors Temperature Gloves Lighting

Ergonomic Controls Administration Employees Engineering Ergonomic controls are the responsibility of everyone in order to maintain an environment that encourages safety and wellness. Administration Employees Engineering

Prevention for Material Handlers Ergonomics is fitting the task to the worker. The application of ergonomic principles in combination with proper body mechanics has proven to be successful in decreasing the number of complaints of discomfort associated with cumulative trauma disorders (CTD’s). Failure to comply with these basic recommendations may result in neck, back, and upper extremity injuries

Prevention for Material Handlers Check Your Work Area Floor surface dry/clean Minimize confined spaces Destination clear for load Heavy items placed at waist height Check Your Habits Test load before handling When possible, use equipment Get help if needed Good communication between co-workers Plan the transfer from lift to destination Always use proper body mechanics Increase flexibility during breaks Check Your Posture Broad base of support Use legs to power transfer Keep the load close to your body Maintain natural curve of back and neck Avoid twisting

Prevention for Patient Handlers Check Your Work Habits Assess task before handling When possible, use equipment Get help if needed Good communication amongst co-workers Plan the transfer from lift to destination Always use proper body mechanics Increase flexibility during breaks Adjust bed height to decrease stooping and maximize leverage (about waist height or a little higher) Make sure there are two of you, one on each side for boosts and/or transfers Allow patient to help if possible with a trapeze or by pushing with legs Use legs and weight shift when moving patient up, don’t twist, step with feet Keep patient close and avoid reaching Use transfer belts, sliding boards, or mechanical lifts when possible

Prevention for Patient Handlers Check Your Posture When working with a patient when they are in bed or sitting in a chair, check your posture: Adjust bed height to decrease stooping One knee on edge of bed or lunge position Proper alignment (ears in line with shoulders in line with hips) Shoulders back with elbows bent Shoulders back and straight, not hunched Bending over from hips keeping back straight If need to get lower, use legs and bend knees

Summary As you have concluded, knowledge is the first step in ensuring a safe work environment for everyone. Health begins with you Your company has invested in this training so you can become more involved in your own safety and health. Incorporate the principles expressed within this training as you go through your work, home and leisure life. Now the rest is up to you…