Maintaining a clean environment through custodial work responsibilities can be both physically demanding and have the potential to cause musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) due to ergonomic risk factors. Some of these risk factors include repetitive motions, awkward postures, vibration, bending, and lifting. To mitigate these risks, it is crucial to adhere to proper ergonomic practices. Here are some tips that can enhance custodial ergonomics.
Mopping and Sweeping Floors
- Shift your feet from side to side to avoid overreaching, minimizing strain on your upper body.
- Alternate the use of your right and left arm to prevent fatigue, taking short breaks for relief.
- Bend your knees and maintain a straight back while using the mop ringer to keep your spine in a neutral position.
- Avoid lifting heavy mop buckets; instead, use a hose or floor drain for water drainage.
Vacuuming
- Alternate between your right and left arm during extended vacuuming sessions to prevent fatigue.
- Vacuum with a padded handle to reduce vibration. Anti-vibration gloves may also be used, if necessary.
- Stand upright while vacuuming to maintain a neutral spine posture and minimize lower back pain.
- Carry the vacuum by the handle or center to distribute weight evenly.
Various Cleaning Tasks
- Bend at the knees, not the waist, when performing tasks to decrease stress on your back.
- Ensure that tool handles are long enough to reach most areas, reducing stress on your back and knees.
- Alternate the use of your right and left hands to prevent fatigue.
- Consider wearing knee pads or using a knee rest for extended periods on your knees.
Moving Carts with Cleaning Supplies
- Utilize carts whenever possible or carry small quantities to avoid excessive weight.
- Arrange frequently used items close to you to minimize reaching and strain on the musculoskeletal system.
- Push the carts rather than pulling.
- Use well-maintained carts with large, low-resistance wheels for easier maneuvering.
- Adjust cart handles to waist height for neutral postures, especially if carts are shared among workers.
Trash Removal
- Keep your back straight and bend at the knees while removing trash bags.
- Opt for more frequent trips with lighter loads to reduce stress on your musculoskeletal system.
- Alternate the use of your right and left hands to prevent fatigue.
- Seek assistance or use mechanical aids like dollies or carts for heavy trash bags.
- Maintain the load within the safe lifting zone, above your knees but below your shoulders.
Be safe today and remain a Buckeye tomorrow.