LAW REPORT
Spend some time also looking at other issues in the workplace and perhaps consider the following too :
• Automate the manual task if possible
• Have goods delivered directly to the point of use rather than to a common docking area
• Replace heavy items with lighter or smaller ones or ones that are easier to handle
• Consider providing trolleys to help move items
• Create workplace policies about the storage and handling of goods to avoid large quantities being moved
• Provide workstations that are adjustable
• Provide shock-absorbent shoes for those working on hard floors such as concrete
• Rotate workers between tasks or limit the length of shifts to avoid fatigue and poor posture
• Review work tasks to avoid repetitive tasks lasting longer than 2 minutes
• Review workspaces and remove awkward areas that are hard to reach
• Consider storing heavier items on lower shelves
To reduce sedentary behaviours , consider the following :
• Review the job to minimise sitting time
• Encourage regular movement by moving printers etc . to a common area away from desks , standing in meetings , and delivering a communication in person rather than by emailing or phoning
• Provide adjustable workstations or sit-to-stand desks and encourage people to use them
• Encourage people to take lunchbreaks away from their desks
Slips , Trips and Falls
These are the second most common types of injury in workplaces . Safework Australia defines slips , trips and falls as follows :
Slips occur when your foot loses traction with the ground surface due to inappropriate footwear or walking on slippery floor surfaces that are highly polished , wet or greasy .
The main causes of slips , trips and falls in the workplace are :
• Uneven floor surfaces
• Unsuitable floor coverings
• Wet / slippery floors
• Changes in levels
• Trailing cables
• Poor lighting
• Poor housekeeping including debris lying around or items being stored in inappropriate areas .
Trips occur when you catch your foot on an object or surface . In most cases people trip on low obstacles that are hard to spot , such as uneven edges in flooring , loose mats , open drawers , untidy tools or electrical cables .
Falls can result from a slip or trip but many are also from low heights such as steps , stairs and kerbs , falling into a hole or a ditch , or into water
So how can you help keep your workplace safe from these injuries ?
• Keep pathways clean and clear of clutter . In other words , clean up all spills immediately and don ’ t use corridors as places to store thing . By keeping walkways clear , you can quickly reduce the potential for injury .
• Make sure all stairs have handrails , are well lit and don ’ t have loose carpet or tiles . Again , the stairs are not a place to store things . Keep them unobstructed . Don ’ t have unsecured mats or rugs on the landing .
• Manage all power , internet and phone cords by running cables behind walls or under carpets to keep them hidden .
• Make sure your workers wear appropriate footwear . In the healthcare industry , these should be covered and non-slip shoes with proper traction and good shock absorption .
• Make sure you have adequate lighting inside and outside your workplace .
• Provide ladders or step-stools to help workers reach heights safely . A worker should never stand on their chair to reach something .
• Check floor conditions inside and out . Repair any problems as quickly as possible , remove leaves and other debris from outside , put down rubber mats if tiles become slippery when it rains , and in bathrooms , and secure all mats and rugs .
• Clean up spills immediately , especially oil which can become very slippery , or anything sticky .
• Remind workers not to rush around the workplace and to pay attention and look where they are going .
One last thing to remember . Our workplaces are made up of people who are of different ages and from different cultures . You may need to provide information and training in different ways to ensure everyone understands what is needed of them .
Using the knowledge and experience of everyone helps to identify safety hazards but you need to remember that some workers may not have this knowledge and experience , so it is best not to assume knowledge during training and meetings . Workers may feel uncomfortable asking questions so make sure you create an open environment where communication about health and safety is encouraged . As part of this , remember that young workers may have no or limited work experience . They may not understand the risks of what they are doing or know how to protect themselves . This just means that they may need extra support and to be shown appropriate work practices .
So , as we all head back into the workplace , take some time to review these hazards and take steps to prevent injuries . Set up some training or other reminders , as workers may be a little rusty .
JATMS | Summer 2021 | 221