Originally published 05/29/2018
Construction work can be rough on the body. We perform many tasks that involves pushing, pulling and most dangerous lifting. When similar task are performed without consideration of the damage that can be caused to the body injuries such as pulled or strained muscles not to mention the more serious ones involving ligaments, tendons and other soft tissues that surround the spine. It is important to be aware of the common practices in construction where injuries are most prevalent:
Here are a few ways that injuries commonly occur:
- Repetitive lifting.
- Twisting while lifting instead of turning our feet.
- Falling or slipping while carrying a load.
- Losing grip causing the load to shift.
- Carrying bulky objects with arms outstretched.
- Carrying objects that are too heavy.
- Uneven walking surfaces.
- Climbing stairs while carrying objects.
- Using the spine to do the lifting instead of your legs.
Here are a few tips to follow to help prevent the occurrence of an injury:
- Break down loads. Don’t carry entire bundles, break them down.
- Use a machine – skid steer, loader, pickup truck, dolly, etc.
- Place equipment such as generators, compressors and welders to prevent the need for frequent movement.
- Use wagons, dollies to move tool boxes, supplies, crates, etc.
- Team lift with a coworker to share the load.
- When supplies are delivered, ask the delivery person to unload them as close as possible to where they’re needed.
- Pick up trip hazards on stairs or walkways.
- Use gravel to make ramps over footings or concrete pad edges.
- Wear proper footwear for the jobsite.
Planning ahead and having forethought about the lift can go a long way toward avoiding injuries.