Ergonomics refers to your body’s capacity to perform a task at hand in the safest and most efficient way possible. The key to ergonomics is to be efficient and productive in your work without harming your body in the process. If you harm your body in order to complete specific tasks in the workplace I doubt you will be able to carry on completing your tasks in an efficient or productive manner. Ergonomics will allow workers to continue their tasks without putting risk to their body’s well being. Health and safety training teaches workers the science of ergonomics so they can complete tasks such as lifting and lowering without injuring themselves. Manual handling training is a part of the health and safety training curriculum which shares ergonomic practices with workers.
Manual handling training encourages workers to ask for assistance if they are having trouble carrying a heavy item. If a machine can be used to support the heavy load, opt for that instead. It also recommends that they clear the way before picking up a particular item so they don’t injure themselves by tripping or falling. Tripping and falling can lead to permanent and serious injuries in the workplace. Manual handling DVDs teach workers how to lift and lower heavy objects. For example, when you are picking up a heavy box you should make sure to spread your legs to shoulder width apart so that you can support a heavy load. Never bend your body while picking up a box. You should always kneel down so that your back is perpendicular to the ground while picking up a heavy box. By providing health and safety training sessions on a regular basis for your workers you will notice the number of sick leaves taken to have considerably reduced.
Manual handling teaches workers to use the strength from their legs instead of their back. This substantially reduces the risk of injury. The skills taught during manual handling training can be used in the workplace and everywhere else. Manual handling is a matter of safety and the well being of your workers. You strain your body a lot less if you can push a load rather than pulling it. Pushing a load gives you more control while moving a particular object. When workers learn during manual handling training how common injuries occur they will do their best to avoid those situations.
Manual handling emphasizes the need to carry heavy loads close to the waist in order to put less strain on your back muscles. The heaviest side of the box should be close to your body. When conducting health and safety training for your workers it is important to cover all of the important issues so they will be prepared for any situation. You can use safety learning DVDs, safety booklets and trainer guides to conduct a successful health and safety training session. Manual Handling training will reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. Other important issues to be covered during health and safety training include, fire safety, chemical spills, electrical hazards, spreading germs, protective wear, basic first aid and more.