by Jerry Mooney
RSIs (repetitive strain injuries) are one of the most common forms of work-related injury. Unlike work accident injuries, RSIs happen over a long period of time as the result of doing a repetitive task. Many long-running companies have been finding that these injuries are now leading to lawsuits from ex-employees – not only could taking preventative measures against RSIs help to protect you and your employees’ health in the future, it could also protect you financially and be vital for your company’s reputation. Here are just several ways to reduce the risk of developing RSIs.
Provide training for physical tasks
When it comes to tasks such as picking up heavy loads, it’s important to think of the long-term health risks. By training employees to do these tasks in a certain way, you can reduce the risk of developing an RSI - for example, teaching people to crouch rather than bend when picking things up off the floor can reduce the risk of back problems later in life.
Encourage physical activity
RSIs aren’t just the result of physical tasks. Spending hours a day sitting down can also have its health risks such as weakened stomach muscles, knee joint wear, spinal wear and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. There are lots of ways in which you can encourage your employees to stay active such as locating bins and printers around the office so that people have to get up and move or putting a ban on eating lunch at one’s desk. You could even try incorporating some standing desks.
Think ergonomic
Ergonomics is all about improving comfort by shaping tools to fit the human body. Upgrading your furniture to more comfortable options as found at sites like www.apex.com.au could help to prevent injuries – an example could include a chair with adjustable height and the option to lean back so that employees aren’t craned over desks. Meanwhile, in the case of manual labour, consider ergonomic power tools that fit to the user’s hands and limit vibrations. Sites such as www.atlascopco.com have some good examples of drills that have been ergonomically designed.
Reconsider your dress code
In some companies, it could also be worth reassessing your dress code. Uniform guidelines such as forcing women to wear heels can lead to RSIs – wearing heels on a regular basis can gradually wear joints in ankles, knees and hips. Such dress codes have been branded ‘sexist’ and have led to many lawsuits. Make sure that your uniform doesn’t include regulations such as this that could be damaging people’s health.
Turn down the volume
A loud working environment can cause hearing damage over a sustained period. Consider how high the decibel level is and whether steps should be taking to bring down the volume. This could involve using less noisy machinery or soundproofing areas with loud machines. In trades such as construction, airport work and music venue work it has become common practice to supply ear protection. Consider whether your work environment could benefit from this.
