Category Archives: Back Safety

Back Safety, Ergonomics, General Safety Issues

UNDERSTANDING BACK SUPPORTS (GUEST POST)

If you work a job that requires you to stand for most of the day or if you have to lift heavy materials, you’ll likely need substantial support for your back to prevent injury. It’s important to know which back support device will work best for your body and prevent your muscles from being strained. You’ll also need to keep a few safety tips in mind that will help you make the most of the back support products you purchase.


Back supports are designed to stabilize the groups of muscles in the back and abdomen region.

Supports that Prevent Strain

When lifting heavy boxes and machinery, a back support that securely holds your lower lumbar area is best. Products like the Spanbak Allegro back support may be a viable option. The brace is made from spandex that is breathable, so it will easily take on the shape of your body without causing you to excessively perspire. The back support brace also comes with removable suspenders that you can wear for especially strenuous jobs. There are also stays on the brace that are made from carbon steel coated in plastic to provide support for your torso and back as you work.

Supports that Provide Stability

When you stand for hours at a time and have to turn your torso constantly to move objects or operate machinery, you’ll need a back support that will keep the midsection of your body stable. The All Fit Back Support by Allegro is a great choice in cases like this. The support device fits most body sizes and includes a neoprene pad that fits over the center of the back and covers the spine to keep your back in a healthy position. There are also padded cushions in the front of the brace so that the abdomen is protected.

Supports that Prevent Further Back Injury

If you’ve strained or injured your back at work before, you’ll need a brace that will prevent the injury from getting worse and help you to avoid further strain. A brace with lumbar support that provides relief from pain in the back and keeps the muscles from becoming weaker is the answer. It’s best that the back brace is lightweight so that your body won’t have to carry too much extra weight, which could be overwhelming for your already fatigued muscles. The Lo Plus Lumbar Support may be a helpful solution in this case.


Don’t forget to stretch your back muscles after being in a standing position for hours.

Other Ways To Help

In addition to wearing back supports during work, there are a number of foods you can eat to make your back and torso muscles strong. Foods that are rich in protein and antioxidants will strengthen the muscles and improve circulation, so be sure to eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables during your lunch break or at dinner. Nuts and seeds are healthy sources of protein and will give your muscles the endurance they need so you can do your job thoroughly.

Stretching the back safely before and after a long day at work can also keep your muscles from becoming stiff and inflamed. Remember to remove your brace as soon as possible after work to help it maintain its shape, and store it on a hanger so it will stay intact and be ready for everyday use.

P.S. Texas America Safety Company, tasco-safety.com, also carries the Spanbak lines of back support, as well as OK-1 Model SS, premier lifting belt.  Mention you read it on the blog, and you get 5% off. pb

Back Safety, Ergonomics, General Safety Issues

DO YOU HAVE A “STAND-UP JOB?”

Is your job a stand-only one?   Any prolonged position can hurt your body, and standing is no exception.  The best position is standing in a variety of ways, where you equally distribute loads on different parts of the body but causes no physical strain.  There is no single, ideal body position for several hours of remaining upright while working.

 Workers often sit or stand for long periods of time, for example:   salesperson, machine operator, assembly-line worker, bank teller, store clerk, nurse, cooks, and waitresses.  They suffer many discomforts, such as muscular fatigue, low back pain, sore feet, or stiffness in the shoulders and neck. 

Excessive standing also causes the joints in the spine, hips, knees and feet to become temporarily locked.  This immobility can later lead to rheumatic diseases due to degenerative damage to the tendons and ligaments.  Those whose jobs require standing most of the time, should take frequent breaks and do some walking around the workplace to exercise their joints from being in the same position.  Stretching before and after work could help. If you spend most of your time at work standing, here are some tips you can do to improve your posture and reduce the ill effects: 

Proper position

If you work in a standing position, always face what you’re working on, keeping your body close to the work.  Adjust the workspace so that you have enough space to change positions. Use a foot rail or portable footrest to shift your body weight from both legs to one or the other leg. Use a seat whenever possible while working, or at least during rest breaks. Avoid over-reaching behind or above the shoulder line, or beyond the point of what is comfortable. Instead of reaching, shift your feet to face the object.  If you must stand to work, take frequent rest breaks.  Stretching through the day will relax your muscles. Bank tellers or convenience store clerks could have a stool located behind them, in order to sit while not attending to a customer.

Proper standing surface

The floor you stand on also greatly affects your level of comfort. Wooden, cork or rubber-covered floors are better than concrete or metal, but if you must stand on hard floors, stand on mats. Floor mats should have slanted edges to help prevent tripping. They must be dense enough to cushion the feet, but not too thick. Too much cushioning, from thick foam-rubber mats, for example, can cause fatigue and increase the hazard of tripping.

Workstation set up

Any stand-up workstation should be adjusted according to your height, using elbow height as the guide. For example, precision work, such as writing or electronic assembly, requires a work surface that’s 5 cm above elbow height; your elbows should be supported. Light work, such as assembly-line or mechanical jobs, require a work surface that is 5 to 10 cm below elbow height. Heavy work, demanding downward forces, requires a surface that is 20 to 40 cm below elbow height.

Wear Comfortable footwear

If your feet hurt, your legs, back and hips will also hurt.  The comfort of your feet depends largely on your footwear. Choose footwear that accommodates the hazards in your workplace. Your shoes should be as wide as your feet, leaving room to move your toes. They should have arch supports to prevent flattening of the feet, and a heel with a firm grip to prevent slipping.  Lace-up shoes are best, because they allow you to tighten the instep of your footwear, keeping your foot from slipping inside the shoe or boot. The footwear should have heels that are not flat, but are no higher than 5 cm (2 inches). Wear padding under the tongue if you suffer from tenderness over the bones at the top of the foot. And if you work on a metal or cement floor, cushion your foot with a shock-absorbing insole.

Many professional women –  attorneys, legislative employees, and others are required to dress for the job, including dress shoes, some with very high heels. The only advice to give them is to wear a pair of walking shoes while climbing up stairs or walking to their jobs, and don the heels once their day at work actually begins. Years later, they will possibly pay the price for standing all day in 4-5″ heels (to be fashionable).

Source: Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety

Note: Texas America Safety Company recommends using posters to promote ergonomic safety for those workers who have to stand or sit in the same position all day.

Back Safety, Ergonomics, Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Protective Clothing, Respiratory Safety

FOUR SOLID CONCRETE SAFETY TIPS YOU SHOULD KNOW (GUEST POST)

Concrete is one of the most widely used materials in construction yet many contractors lack knowledge of the potential dangers posed by concrete and the equipment used to pour and finish it.

Thankfully, the deaths caused as a direct result of working with concrete are extremely rare. The injuries incurred from working with the material carelessly, however, are higher. And, like most workplace accidents, a significant proportion of these injuries were probably avoidable.

With that in mind, here are four essential concrete safety tips for anyone regularly working with concrete or related machinery.

Concrete burns; keep covered up and wear protective equipment

Concrete burns are one of the lesser understood risks of working with fresh concrete, principally because the thick, cold consistency of concrete isn’t something you’d expect to have a burning property.

However, fresh concrete has a high alkaline content, which makes it extremely dangerous to human skin. Even worse, alkaline attacks nerve endings meaning that those exposed to concrete might not feel the effects until well after initial contact. The severity of concrete burns can range from minor irritation to dermatitis and burns.

To avoid the risk of concrete burns, ensure that all skin that could potentially be exposed to concrete mix is fully covered; this includes forearms, legs and a face mask and goggles if possible. It goes without saying that you should invest in some hard-wearing protective gloves when handling concrete too.

Protect yourself from concrete dust

Concrete dust from pre-mix concrete is one of the more dangerous elements of working with concrete, as prolonged exposure and inhalation can lead to the development of asthma and other occupation-related respiratory illnesses. In the short term, it can also lead to severe irritation of the eyes.

Fortunately, protecting yourself from the effects of concrete dust is relatively simple. Always wear protective goggles and a face mask when pouring your concrete into a mixer. If any other unprotected workers are in your direct proximity at the time, tell to stand clear until the dust has cleared.

Be prepared for heavy lifting

Depending on the kind of concrete job you’re carrying out, workers might be required to lift heavy concrete blocks. Set concrete is extremely heavy, so ensure that you have the correct amount of workers lifting a block and that each worker follows the accepted ‘safe’ way to lift: a straight back, bent knees and lifting with the legs.

For heavier concrete blocks, you might require the use of machinery such as a crane. Before allowing a crane to lift a block, make sure that the block is properly secured and any risk of the block falling loose is minimal. Clear any workers out of the path of the block’s journey to avoid any fatalities should the block fall.

Stay safe with construction equipment

The finishing of concrete requires a lot of equipment, including some seriously heavy-duty machines such as ride-on power trowels. Safety checks should be carried out on this machinery before use; is everything in working order? Are there any loose parts? Also make sure that you fully train (or are fully trained) in the same use of all equipment you use – if you feel unsure or suspect that a worker might not be in a position to safely operate equipment, get someone else to operate the equipment and organise further training.

When using any construction equipment, other workers should be positioned well clear of the operating area.

Concrete is an extremely useful material and one that is relatively easy to use – so long as you follow basic safety procedures.

Christopher Smith is writing on behalf of Multiquip UK, suppliers of construction equipment

 

Back Safety, Ergonomics, Fall Safety, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Protective Clothing, Respiratory Safety

EASY HEALTH AND SAFETY TIPS FOR THE WORKPLACE (GUEST POST)

Regardless of the type of industry you work in, whether it is construction, manufacturing or energy, it is extremely important that you adhere to any health and safety rules in the workplace. If you fail to follow the health and safety guidelines  in operation, you may find that you inadvertently put yourself, and those around you, at risk. To ensure  you are taking  safety seriously, and protecting those around you,  we recommend you follow these five simple tips:

Slips, Trips and Falls

Regardless of the environment you work in, you need to be conscious of any potential slips and trips that can occur. To avoid a fall at work, you should ensure that all employees have had relevant training, explaining how best to avoid any accidents in the workplace. For example, ensuring all equipment is returned after use, can prevent anyone from tripping over it. It is also important that all employees know not to ignore a spillage or hazard.

Heavy Goods and Lifting

If you work in an industry which requires you to constantly move products from one place from another, you should always ensure you are comfortable with the weight you are carrying. Currently there are restrictions in place, as to what a single person should legally be carrying, these regulations aim to protect employees from being expected to carry something that is too heavy for them. If you believe that an item is too heavy to be carried safely, you should use the appropriate lifting gear available, helping to prevent a heavy lifting injury.

Personal Protective Clothing

If you work in a hazardous environment, or you are operating dangerous machinery, you should always ensure that you are wearing the appropriate Personal Protective Clothing (PPE). Even if you are only going to be working for a short period of time, it is essential that you, and your fellow employees, are always protected.

Wiring

Most work places will have a high volume of wires to contend  with. It is extremely important that all wires are maintained, and organized, in a manner that will prevent employees and visitors from tripping over them. If  a little time is regularly dedicated to tidying and maintaining wires, you will find that any issues are quickly resolved. When setting up new equipment, or machinery, you should make certain that all wires are kept to the edge of a room, and that they are firmly fixed in place.  Such measures will ensure they cannot move, avoiding the potential for a hazard to develop.

Fire Hazards

In any workplace fires are extremely dangerous, and can be devastating. With this in mind, you should prioritise  protecting your workplace; making sure all employees are vigilant. It is crucial that you clearly explain and display fire procedures, making sure they are understood, in case of an emergency.  You should also test and service all fire alarms and fire extinguishers on regular basis, so you know they will work correctly if they are ever required. 

Asons Solicitors suggest that if someone would like to learn more about health and safety claims process, such information is available at www.asons.co.uk, or via an expert helpline on 01204 521 133 

About Asons Solicitors:

Asons Solicitors is a Bolton-based law practice that specialises in personal injury and industrial disease claims. Founded by brothers Imran Akram and Kamran Akram, Asons Solicitors has developed to become a young and dynamic law firm that delivers practical solutions to clients in times of difficulty. Their continued focus on their staff has seen them awarded with the Investors in People “Gold Award”; which is reflected in the professional and personable approach they take in working with clients. They strive to grow and to develop, and their supportiveness and attention to detail ensures that their clients use them time and again. 

For further information contact:

Email: info@asons.co.uk; Website: www.asons.co.uk

Back Safety, General Safety Issues

WATCH OUT FOR OUR SCHOOL CHILDREN!

How quickly the summer school break goes by.  It seems the schools just ended another year, and now it’s almost time to begin a new one.  There is much anticipation in the air, especially for students that will experience school for the first time, or moving up to middle school, or high school.  This is our reminder to you that our future generations are going to be either walking, on a bus, in a carpool, or riding their bikes to school.  It is our responsibility as drivers to slow down and pay close attention.

Our second reminder: be sure your kids have received all their shots that are required to go to school.  Free clinics are offering these shots, so now’s the time to take care of it.  This is as important, or more so, than all the school supplies they will be needing. 

Many states have laws that forbid drivers using cell phones in a school zone.  This is a good law, and one that persons shouldn’t mind abiding by.  Save that conversation for later, after you have stopped your car and gotten out of it.  We need to remind our teens that texting and driving don’t mix at any time, and more so when there are chances of little ones crossing the streets or getting off the school bus. 

Schools must put a stop to school bus bullying or physical encounters on buses.  Schools should have constant communication systems between the bus drivers and the main office.  In case of an incident, school officials or law enforcement should step in immediately.  We have seen incidents that have been recorded on cell phones.  The person doing the recording should be calling for help, as well.  They may be afraid of a confrontation with the bully or bullies, but school administration officials should have a zero tolerance for this type of behavior. 

Parents, go with your little ones for the first few times if they will be riding a bus.  Be sure they understand when to get off safely and never to walk in front or directly behind the bus; rather, let the bus pull away first.  If they are walking, please accompany them for a while, and if you can, find an older child that you know and trust to walk with them.  Be sure they understand to obey the school crossing guard, who is there for their safety, and only cross streets at the corner. 

Another tip for parents: don’t overload your child’s backpack.  Their little backs can only carry so much, so balance the books, pens, crayons, etc. to lighten their load as much as possible. 

For those drivers who go to work each day, leave the house a little early, to allow time to stop for school children or a school bus.  It’s better to get to work on time, if possible, so take those extra minutes to head out and pay attention to little pedestrians. 

Many of us grew up or raised our children in much more innocent times.  Our children are most precious; if you live in a neighborhood that is not completely safe, please don’t send your child out alone.  Be sure they go to school in a group.  All kids should be taught never to talk to strangers or get in a vehicle with someone they don’t know.   

These tips are reminders for all of us – drivers, parents, teenagers, teachers, bus drivers, and school administrators –  to do our best to make this a very safe year for our children.  We should commit to seeing that they are kept safe and secure at all times.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Back Safety, Ergonomics, Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Head Protection, Hearing Protection

FORKLIFT TRUCK SAFETY – PART II (GUEST POST)

Because of the detailed information in yesterday’s article, we continue  with Part II.  Please read these valuable instructions regarding forklift safety, submitted by Andrea Bernie.

Loading 

Every forklift comes with a data plate fixed in place as handy reference for important information such as load limits.  When loading a forklift: 

  •          Never exceed manufacturer’s recommended load limit
  •          Keep the vehicle’s mast in an upright position before inserting it into a pallet
  •          Make sure the fork is level before inserting it into a pallet
  •          Position the load according to manufacturer recommendation
  •          Never add a counterweight
  •          For the most stable hauling, keep the load as close to the front wheels as possible 

Raising the Load 

The forklift truck is least stable when its raising the load.  The higher the load, the more unstable the machine.  For optimum safety: 

  •          Never raise or lower the fork on a moving vehicle
  •          Always come to a complete stop, with brake engages, before raising the load or lowering it
  •          For driver safety, never lift a load that will extend higher than the fork’s backrest
  •         Check for adequate overhead clearance before lifting the load
  •          Be mindful of obstructions or other loads along the travel path
  •          Avoid overheat power lines at all times
  •          For traveling stability, life the load first up, then tilted back slightly before moving it
  •          Make sure forks are free before traveling in reverse
  •          Never abandon a loaded forklift, especially if the load is in a raised position
  •          Keep people off the lift, whether loaded or unloaded
  •          Keep people out from under the lift, whether it’s loaded or unloaded 

Handling Pallets 

Pallets and forklifts work together like locks and keys but it’s not a fool-proof union.  Caution in handling pallets is required for speed, efficiency, and to minimize the risk of accidents. 

  •          Adjust forks to fit pallets before inserting them
  •          Make sure the load is balanced and stable before beginning the lift
  •          Make sure the forks are completely under the pallet before beginning the lift
  •          Never adjust the load, the forklift or truck, or the surrounding area once the fork is loaded
  •          Never transfer a palleted load from one raised forklift to another 

Loading or Unloading Straight Trucks, Tractor Trailers, Railway Cars 

  • Tightly packed cargo, cramped spaces, and uneven or unsteady work surfaces make loading or unloading straight trucks, tractor trailers, railway cars, and other moveable cargo carriers exceptionally risky business.  This is never the work of a rookie, never a training ground.  Only highly skilled, well-trained forklift operators should attempt work in these environments. 

Prepare the vehicle before loading or unloading begins.  Be sure to: 

  •          Post warning signs on all sides of the work area
  •          Verify the floor of the vehicle is strong enough to support the weight of the cargo, the forklift, and its operator
  •          Verify the dockplate or on / off ramp is securely fixed in place and can support the weight of the cargo, the forklift, and its   operator
  •          Firmly set all the vehicle’s brakes
  •          Chock all wheels with a wedge or block
  •          If the trailer is uncoupled, in a stand-alone setting, secure it with fixed jacks for added stability
  •          Ensure proper lighting
  •          Make sure points of ingress / egress are clear of obstruction and clearly marked inside and outside the vessel
  •          Inspect the work area and clear away all debris, clutter, or obstructions and clean up any spills or wet spots that could trigger an accident
  •          Install non-slip material to floors that suggest potential risk
  •          Make sure the cargo storage zone is clear of obstruction, with all edges clearly marked
  •          Mark load and cargo storage areas with reflective tape if working at night or in dimly lit environments
  •          Do not work in a cargo container with holes in the floor 

During the loading or unloading process: 

  •          Stay as far away from all edges of docks, ramps, or elevated doorways as possible
  •          Never try to move the vessel with the forklift
  •          Work only in well-ventilated work zones
  •          Keep dockplate and ramps clean and clear of clutter at all times
  •          Work slowly and carefully for maximum safety
  •          Never spin the lift truck’s wheels 

Special measures are necessary for working safely around railway cars: 

  •          Always cross the track on a diagonal
  •          Make sure hand brakes, derailer, and wheel blocks are in place before entering the car
  •          Open railway car doors properly, never with the forks of the lift truck
  •          Park forklift at least ten feet away from track when not in use 

Entering An Elevator with a Forklift Truck 

Freight elevators can save a lot of time and travel bus command special respect when loading and unloading heavy machinery from them.  Always obtain proper authorization before entering an elevator with a forklift truck and use them safely: 

  •          Before entry, verify the elevator can support the weight of the cargo, the forklift, and its operator
  •          Work slowly and cautiously
  •          Allow ample room for elevator doors to open
  •          Enter the elevator squarely, never at an angle
  •          Once inside, neutralize all controls
  •          Turn the forklift’s engine off
  •          Set all forklift truck brakes 

Parking 

Even parked forklifts are dangerous if they’re not properly exited.  For forklift truck safety round the clock, please: 

  •          Park in designated parking areas only
  •          Before leaving the truck, be sure to:
  •          Firmly set all brakes
  •          Lower forks and/or load to the ground
  •          Turn all controls to neutral or off settings
  •          Turn off the motor
  •          Disconnect battery cables
  •          Follow safety procedures to shut off propane fuel supply 

Technological advances and government regulations make working with forklifts safer to operate with each new design or each new labor law but, ultimately, forklift truck safety depends on the operator.  Respect is required at all times — respect for the machine, respect for the work, respect for the workplace, and respect of the operator and all coworkers in the work zone. 

Author Bio: Joana Kylee is an authorized dealer of superior quality forklift forks, forklift seats and all types forklift spare parts for major brands of lift trucks with same day shipping.

 

 

 

Back Safety, Ergonomics, General Safety Issues

FIVE THINGS TO REMEMBER WHEN HANDLING HEAVY EQUIPMENT (GUEST POST)

 

Manual handling causes over third of all workplace injuries, and if your job frequently requires you to lift, pull, push, hold or restrain heavy objects or equipment, you may be at risk.

However, heavy manual labor is not the only risk factor; manual handling injuries can also occur as a result of awkward postures or repetitive movements of the arms, legs and back.

With this in mind, it is important to identify any possible risks that may be present in your workplace, and take safety precautions to prevent injuries from occurring.

Here are five things to keep in mind when manual handling:

1. Maintain good posture at all times

Maintaining good posture is important whether you are sitting at your desk, waiting in line or lifting something heavy. Keeping your spine straight will protect your muscles, organs, make breathing easier and increase your energy.

Here are a few tips for maintaining good posture during different activities:

Sitting

While seated at your desk, make an effort to sit up straight with your shoulders pulled back. Keep your legs at 90-degree angle to your body in order to support your back. When you are seated correctly your neck, back and heels should be in alignment.

Standing

When standing or walking, keep your head up with your chin slightly tucked in rather than pointing outwards. Your shoulders should be back, your chest should be forward and your stomach should be pulled in. Also, remember to place your weight on the ball of your feel instead of your heels or toes.

Lifting

When stooping to lift something from a low shelf or off the ground, bend at the knees rather than at the waist so that your back stays straight. Use your legs to do the lifting and resist the urge to lean forward. Don’t forget to use your Back Support Belt

2. Lift and carry loads correctly

If you have to lift or carry a heavy load, it is important to follow the right protocol. This includes warming up your muscles with a few gentle stretches before engaging in any manual labor and keeping any objects you are carrying close to the body and lifting with your thigh muscles as opposed to your back.

Always assess whether or not a load can be broken down into smaller and lighter components that will be easier to lift. If you can, push rather than pull the load, as this will put less stress on your body.

Before lifting, adopt a stable position and keep your feet apart while placing one leg forwards in order to maintain your balance. Make sure you have a good grip before you start lifting, and avoid twisting your back or leaning to the side while your back is bent.

3. Use mechanical aids whenever possible

When you have a choice between carrying something yourself or using a mechanical aid such as a wheelbarrow, cart or conveyor belt, you should always choose the mechanical aid, even if you feel capable of lifting the object on your own.

This prevents you from putting an unnecessary strain on your back and means that when you do need to lift something on your own you won’t be worn out. Remember; there is a difference between what you can lift and what you can lift safely.

4. Change the nature of the work

Although this may not always be possible, you should look for opportunities to change the nature of the work you are doing from time to time. Alternating between different tasks throughout the day ensures that you are not carrying out the same movements repeatedly, or overworking certain muscle groups.

For example, if you are unloading boxes from a pallet and your colleague is taking inventory or unpacking the boxes, make a point of trading tasks every so often to give your muscles a break and avoid putting stress on your back.

5. Take frequent breaks

Whether you are sitting at your desk for a prolonged amount of time, lifting and carrying objects or carrying out a task that is repetitive in nature, such as packaging or assembling items, it is important that you take frequent breaks in order to stretch and loosen your muscles and recuperate your strength.

Back Safety, Ergonomics, General Safety Issues

WORK SMARTER: MOVING YOUR HOME WITHOUT INJURY (GUEST POST)

There isn’t a day that goes by where someone is hurt trying to move from one house to another. A lot of times, this is caused by haste and not taking the time in order to prevent injury. For what ever reason you need to move, you should always take the time to analyze how items need to be packed and whether or not they are too heavy to lift by yourself. There are many methods to practicing safety when you are loading up the truck.

1. Dolly – No, it’s not your 6-year-old’s companion. Using a dolly to move heavy objects can save a great deal of strain on yourself. It is also faster than trying to pack the item in and out of the house as it is on wheels. Using leverage to hoist and move an object, you can reduce your misery by utilizing one of these devices for nearly everything. The dolly isn’t merely for heavy appliances. You can stack a few boxes and make a single trip to the truck as opposed to walking back and forth.

2. Double-up – There is no shame in asking someone to help you carry a box to the truck. If a box is too heavy, it makes sense to ask for help. This can save undue stress on your back while protecting the items inside from accidental breakage. Instead of working against gravity by yourself, a more stable situation can be created by doubling-up on a heavy box or item. You have no one to prove yourself to and could look like a fool if you wind up getting hurt.

3. Less Packing – In order to reduce the weight of a single box, don’t pack it so full. Some of us may be accustomed to packing as much as possible in a space in order to not be wasteful. However, the more items in the box means the heavier it’s going to be. If you don’t have smaller boxes in order to adjust for the volume of packing, then realize that you don’t need to fill the larger one full if you are unable to lift the package.

4. Braces – Moving your home can be quite the grueling workout. Braces of all kinds can help keep your body from suffering during the process. As we get older, our bodies are wearing down and are unable to function as they once did. This is nothing to be ashamed of since it’s a fact of life. If you don’t have the benefit of having teenage children, wearing a brace on your knees, back, or elbows can help prevent a great deal of pain later on. After all, you don’t want to spend the first week in your new home in agony while popping painkillers.

5. Earlier Packing – If you have intentions of moving within the immediate future, start packing as soon as possible. Spending time packing your home can be more efficient than rushing it at the last second. When we are rushed to accomplish a task, there is a greater chance of having an accident. Take time to pack your belongings and ensure the safety of yourself and your valuables.

It doesn’t take much time or effort to realize that you may need help moving your stuff around. Set aside the macho behavior and ask someone for help. You don’t need to be Hercules and toss your stuff in the truck. Wouldn’t you rather use the energy to unpack your new home as opposed to laying on the floor popping ibuprofen? 

This is a guest post by Liz Nelson from WhiteFence.com. She is a freelance writer and blogger from Houston. Questions and comments can be sent to: liznelson17 @ gmail.com.

Back Safety, Ergonomics, General Safety Issues

HEALTH AND SAFETY TIPS FOR MOVERS (GUEST POST)

Movers help people relocate from point A to point B. They are called on to carry large and heavy furniture and appliances safely. Movers oversee the process and make sure all items are hauled to the new location in the fastest and safest way possible, using packaging tools and trucks for prep and transport. 

The Life of a Mover

The responsibilities of movers are more on strength of body instead of mind. In each project they manage, movers carry heavy boxes and push and pull cargo multiple times. With this nature of work, movers are exposed to health and safety hazards that should be identified and prevented. If one fails to do so, he/she may end up injured and out of the job for good. 

Peruse the Workplace

For starters, make your work environment safe by checking for anything unsafe or unhealthy within the area. A box full of sharp nails may be ready to collapse at any moment while a furniture piece may have some splinters waiting for the precise time to strike. Determine what is the highest risk and priority and how to deal with it. Prior planning and preparation for every project should be adopted into the workplace. 

Repair the Identified Problems

Take action to repair any issues that you’ve identified within the workplace. Pick up loose nuts and bolts that you could trip on or wrap exposed cables and wires with tape to avoid getting electrocuted or starting a fire. Check the issues you just addressed and make sure it won’t happen again. 

A professional mover must also plan and prepare individual health and safety measures for every project they undertake. Completing some training courses are also imperative to work safely. This not only helps you work proficiently and safely but also adds to your credentials as a professional mover. 

Familiarize Yourself With the Law

Know the laws relevant to moving and update yourself. There are laws for the transport of potentially dangerous goods, mass and dimension restrictions, load limit requirements, fatigue management, etc. Involve and inform your coworkers so that they too can exercise these health and safety protocols. 

Keep Your Vehicle in Perfect Condition

The other half of the moving process is transport. This means you should also be sure your vehicle is functioning properly. A flat tire can delay the move and even jeopardize the items carried by the vehicle. Your moving vehicle should be fit for the job. Have it checked and maintained regularly. This includes tire alignment, oil change, and engine diagnosis. Call a mechanic or learn the safety procedures of changing tires and other vehicle maintenance procedures if you are going to do it yourself. 

When in the driver’s seat, avoid multitasking like texting on your phone. Avoid distractions while loading and unloading as well. Bring a valid driver’s license along just in case you get in trouble with authorities. To avoid any problems, abide by all road regulations and laws. Be prepared for unprecedented circumstances like vehicle inspections and heavy traffic incidents. Install alert warning systems to avoid speeding and getting pulled over.

Handling Electrical Systems

Movers may also be required to perform some electrical work. If you are untrained and inexperienced in electrical work, call licensed electricians to do it for you. Do not attempt anything on the system if you are unsure as this may lead to injuries. Use exclusion zones when closely working with overhead power lines. Take note that the requirements for exclusion zones differ with voltage. The higher the voltage, the larger the exclusion zone. 

Avoid Stress

Avoid stressful situations and defuse them immediately before it worsens. A clear and focused mind is necessary to perform your responsibilities as a mover. Stress can cloud your judgment and disable you from thinking straight. This could lead to workplace accidents. Physical and mental fatigue should also be avoided by getting adequate rest and eating a well-balanced diet. Never leave for work on an empty stomach. Eat nutritious meals like cereals and whole grain breads that give you carbohydrates for energy. Get at least 6 hours of sleep per day to allow your mind to replenish. 

Protect Yourself From Extreme Temperatures

When at work, avoid extreme temperatures. Avoid the scorching summer heat by staying in the shade. Wear multiple layers of clothing during the cold winter season. Exposing your body to physical work plus the harsh climates can take its toll on both mind and body.  

This guest post was written by Victor Daily, passionate blogger with extensive experience from Brisbane, Australia. Important information for this article have been provided by http://www.yourlocalmovers.com.au.

We appreciate the great advice from Victor and hope he sends more!  Persons who do much lifting might want to consider wearing a lifting belt, and using the correct lifting methods to avoid back injury.  pb

Back Safety, Eye Protection, Fall Safety, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Hearing Protection, High Visibility Safety, Protective Clothing, Respiratory Safety

KEEPING THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY SAFE (GUEST POST)

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Construction is a notoriously dangerous industry.  In the UK, where we are based, the industry employs around five percent of the country’s workforce.  According to government statistics thosefive percent have twenty-two percent of the work related fatal injuries and ten percent of the reported major injuries.  In the US, seventeen percent of worker fatalities are in the construction industry. 

As shocking as these statistics sound, there’s been a significant improvement in both countries over the last forty years.  I think the reasons for this are threefold.  Firstly, there is much more safety legislation nowadays than formerly.  Secondly there’s a much more consistent use of safety clothing and equipment – much of which you can study at leisure on this site.  Thirdly, more workers receive various forms of safety training.  I firmly believe that the way to continue to improve safety in construction is to make training and refresher courses widely available for people employed in the industry and I also think that it’s in the construction companies’ best interest to ensure that their employees can access training.  Why do I believe this?  Well, there are several reasons: 

1)      Companies can be financially liable for the safety of their employees.  Even with insurance your premiums will go up dramatically if you have accidents on your sites.

2)      Companies generally want to employ the best workers.  If you have a good reputation for safety practice, people are more likely to want to join you and stay with you.  If your employees see that you’re willing to develop their skills, they’re much more likely to stay loyal to you.

3)      Workers are often injured by the actions of other workers.  Think about it – how likely is it that you’ll be fatally injured by a falling object that you’ve dropped? How likely is it that you’ll have put up the scaffolding that’s worked loose and caused you to fall?  The more workers on your site who have safety training, the safer the whole site will be.

4)      Companies can receive site inspections from official bodies.  Some are empowered to fine companies for non-compliance with legislation.  The more knowledgeable your employees are, the less likely you are to have compliance breaches on your sites.

5)      Companies are in a position to request bespoke training from education co-ordinators if they’re putting through a large number of pupils.  This means that the trainer(s) will put your company’s policies and procedures at the heart of their training.  You are also in a position to monitor the way that the training is delivered and make sure that your employees have the skills rather than just the piece of paper at the end of it. 

Are you involved with the construction industry?  Do you have any views on the safety training  you’ve received?  We’d be interested to read your responses in the comments section.

 Sent to us by Carl, of blogginghelper.co.uk
Email: carl@blogginghelper.co.uk
Twitter: @blogginghelper
Web: www.blogginghelper.co.uk