June 20th is the first day of summer, so the days will be getting warmer. This usually results in more patrons coming through our doors, so your workload will increase. Don’t let this increased workload result in an ergonomic injury.

We need to be aware of our posture, as well as the size and shape of the loads we have to lift and any repetitive movements. These are all risk factors that can combine to cause a musculoskeletal injury. A musculoskeletal injury is “an injury or disorder of the muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, nerves, blood vessels or related soft tissue including a sprain, strain and inflammation”. (Section 4.46 in the Occupational Health and Safety regulations)

You can prevent injury by:

• Avoiding awkward postures while carrying out your work
• Reducing the weight of a load by making more trips or using a wheeled cart.
• Changing up your tasks during the day. Varying your tasks will enable your body to change position and greatly reduce the likelihood of a musculoskeletal injury.

If you do suffer from aches and pains at the end of your shift, pay attention to what your body is trying to tell you. Early intervention and treatment means a shorter recovery time and less impact on your work and home life!

Enjoy your summer. Stay safe and healthy.

Component 5 OHS Committee