Quick Start General: 11 x 17 Poster

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1. Store it off the floor

• Store heavy objects between knee and shoulder level. Waist level is best.
• Store items off the floor  to minimize bending.
• Use tables, benches or stands to get work off the floor.
• Use carts or equipment to move heavy items.

2. Keep it close 

• Perform tasks close to your body.
• Avoid leaning and stretching forward to reduce stress on your lower back.
• Avoid side reaches that twist  the spine.
• Your smart workstation: keep common tasks close; less common tasks out of the way.

3. Hands below head

• Use a stool, platform, ladder or hoist so work is below head/shoulder height.
• Choose lighter tools and materials for overhead work.
• Use a bit extender for drills/screw guns.
• Find other tools/assists to limit overhead work.

4. Look straight ahead  

• Position your work and equipment  to keep your gaze straight ahead.
• Position your work below eye level to align your vision with the task.
• Arrange your workspace so common items are centered to your body.
• Remember to give your neck a break.

5. Get a (good) grip 

• High force work: power grip (full hand). Low force, precision work: pinch grip.
• Choose a tool and grip that puts your wrist in a strong, natural posture.
• Choosing tools: good shape for the task, fits your hand, edges don’t dig in.
• Power tools with low vibration and no kickback are best.

6. Change it up 

• Include micro breaks in your  tasks for body recovery and  fatigue prevention.
• Fatigue can occur during long duration efforts and repetitive tasks.
• Rotate different tasks to provide working rests.
• Tasks that have MSD hazards and little recovery time have a high priority for change.

Identify and control workplace hazards. Work shouldn’t hurt!