RISK MANAGEMENT UNIT 5 Lesson 2 Flashcards
refers to being able to
maintain correct body positions during any
movement. Constant or repeated small stresses
over a long period can cause poor or faulty and can lead to injury.
Body Mechanics
When we don’t move correctly and safely, the spine is subjected to abnormal stresses that over time can lead to degeneration of spinal structures like discs and joints, injury, and unnecessary wear and tear.
The Importance of Proper Body Mechanics
We have all been told since childhood to “stand up straight”. But it’s easy to get into bad habits. Good body
mechanics are based on good posture. means the spine is in a
“NEUTRAL” position - not too rounded forward and not arched back too far.
Posture
Millions of people spend a good deal of their time on their feet. Standing work, including bending, lifting, carrying, and reaching can be tough on the back - especially if proper body mechanics are not being used.
Standing
Whether at a desk or home watching television, good body mechanics are still important to keep in mind. For deskwork, consider investing in an
ergonomically enhanced chair.
Sitting
We spend about one-third of our time in bed, so we can’t ignore how our bodies
are positioned during sleep. During our waking hours, the goal is to maintain a
neutral spine even while we are in bed.
Sleeping
Implementing good Body Mechanics teaches us how
to avoid injury by being aware of how our bodies move to
accommodate limitations. There
is no shame in needing to lighten your load when lifting objects. And there are no
awards given for throwing your back out while lifting some ridiculous amount of
weight.
Principles on how to use Good Body Mechanics
Principles on how to use Good Body Mechanics
- Get closer
- Steady as a rock
- Obey Gravity (It’s the law)
- Bigger (in this case) is better
- Don’t be a human corkscrew
- Find the rhythm
Reaching for something strains your back. It also messes with your center of gravity and makes a fall more likely. Just take a step closer and reduce
your risk dramatically.
Get closer
Widen your stance while standing or lifting to increase your
base of support. A strong base is a good place to start.
Steady as a rock
Everyone has a center of gravity. Imagine a line running from your head through your spine and down to the ground. Keep that line
vertical and you’ll be better balanced than your coworkers.
Obey Gravity
Use larger muscle groups when possible over smaller ones. For example, use your leg muscles when lifting items and not your
back.
Bigger is better
Avoid bending and twisting at the same time, it overtaxes your muscles and tendons.
Don’t be a human corkscrew
One way to avoid straining is to go with the flow of a task. Arrange jobs and tasks in such a way that one flows physically into another. Doing this
enables you to work with the momentum of the body.
Find the rhythm
Encourage a culture where you and your team act as one. Asking for help should be embraced. Knowing you have the support of a team enhances trust and community. It prevents employees from overtaxing
themselves.
Ask for Help