STAYING IN TOUCH: JACQUELYN ODURO
Spring in Manitoba is around the corner. Spring cleanup often involves heavy lifting, carrying materials across uneven ground, bending, twisting, and awkward postures. These can lead to strains and sprains—especially after reduced winter activity.
In addition, the warmer temperatures bring melting snow, mud, shifting ground, and cleanup work. These conditions increase the risk of slips, trips, falls, and musculoskeletal injuries.
Proper housekeeping and safe lifting practices help prevent injuries.
- Maintain good housekeeping by adding gravel/mats in muddy areas.
- Wear CSA-approved slip-resistant footwear while cleaning.
- When lifting, keep loads close to your body, bend knees, avoid twisting, and ask for help when needed.
- Where possible use of mechanical aids such ascarts, wheelbarrows, dollies, skid steers, telehandlers, etc.
- Prevent strains byrotating tasks, take short micro-breaks, stretch before shift and after breaks and report early signs of discomfort.
- Report early warning signs of injury such aspersistent soreness, numbness or tingling, weak grip strength, back stiffness. Rest where needed.
Remember that good housekeeping, pre-season equipment inspections, proper lifting and use of mechanical aids can reduce inquiries and pain before the construction season is in full swing.
