Among the main physical risk factors associated with Work-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries (WMSI) are:
– the adoption of incorrect and static postures.
– manual handling of loads, which when done incorrectly often results in twisting and bending movements of the body.
It is therefore essential to reduce the potential risks to which workers are exposed:
– adapt workstations to the physical characteristics (anthropometric measurements) of the worker and the duties to be performed
– sensitize workers to adopting correct postures at work.
Tips for Manual Cargo Handling
– Loads weighing more than 30kg for occasional operations or 20kg for frequent operations, which are difficult to grip, have sharp edges or have to be handled at a distance from the trunk, must be moved by at least two people.
– Preferably, and whenever possible, use mechanical means of moving loads in order to minimize effort.
1 – Grasp the load with both hands.
Keep the load stable.
2 – Slide or pull the load towards your stomach, contracting your muscles as you prepare to lift the load.
3 – Bend your knees if you need to lift a load from the floor, keeping your back straight.
4 – Lift the load keeping it as close to your body as possible.
5 – Hold the load between your shoulders and knees, keeping your back straight.
6 – While holding a load, take firm steps, try not to turn your torso or lean sideways.
Correct Postures when Working with Displays
– The monitor should be at a distance of 50-70 cm
– Top of monitor at eye level or slightly below
– Keyboard at elbow height, at a 90º angle
– Seat height – legs should form an angle of 90º or slightly higher in relation to the thighs
– The spotlights should not be directed at your face or the monitor screen.
– Ensure a well-lit working environment.
– Take short, frequent breaks to rest your eyes.
The posters that you can download here are intended to provide a set of important tips for adopting good posture at work, both when working with display screen equipment and when carrying out manual loading and unloading tasks.
In addition, and because exercise in the workplace is not just a fad of the new age, but an effective solution for promoting workers’ well-being, we have also published two posters illustrating stretching / relaxation exercises.
