The hazard
Strain injuries often build up over time instead of coming from one big accident. The same awkward reach, heavy lift or vibrating tool, day after day, wears on muscles, tendons and joints. Early signs are easy to ignore, but working through them can turn soreness into an injury that keeps you off the job. Ergonomics means fitting the work to the worker so your body lasts a full career.
The action
Rotate tasks when you can, switch hands or sides, and take short breaks to stretch and change position. Use knee pads or a kneeling mat on hard surfaces. When people rush, they tend to lift alone, skip the cart or twist instead of stepping, so plan a realistic pace with the crew.
ASK THE CREW
How do we report aches and pains here, and who do you tell?
From the talk: Ergonomics. Read it in full, free, with the questions and the sign-in sheet.