Redesigning Jobs and Job Tasks

To prevent back injuries on the job, consider these questions when assessing jobs and job tasks.

• Is the work flow well organized to reduce repeated, unnecessary handling of materials?
  Poor planning of the work flow may result in needless and repeated handling of the same materials. Materials may be stored in one place, moved to another, stored again, moved again, etc. Develop a work flow plan that reduces the number of times materials need to be handled to reduce the risk of injury.
  
  
• Could mechanical aids be used?
  Mechanical aids, such as hand carts or dollies, lower the risk of injury by reducing the physical effort required to handle heavy materials. Consider whether lift tables, step stools, conveyors, chutes, or other mechanical aids could be used to lift, move, or dispose of materials. Be sure staff are trained in the correct use of mechanical aids.
  
  
• Are there ways to lighten the load? Consider these suggestions:
  o Decrease the weight to acceptable limits.
  o Assign two people to lift the load.
  o Split the load into two or more containers.
  o Use lighter weight containers.
  o Change the way the material is moved. For example, lowering material is easier than lifting it; pulling easier than carrying; pushing easier than pulling.
  o Change the work layout to reduce the travel distances for carrying, pushing, or pulling.
  o Store heavy items between knee and shoulder height so loads don't need to be lifted from the floor or above shoulder height.
  o Allow for more rest breaks for repetitive manual material handling tasks.
  o Reduce staff fatigue by alternating heavy and lighter job tasks.
  
  
• Can the job task be designed to reduce awkward postures, such as bending and twisting?
  o Locate heavy or frequently moved materials between knee and shoulder height so loads don't need to be lifted from the floor or above shoulder height.
  o Eliminate deep shelves to avoid long reaches and bending.
  o Ensure there is sufficient space for the task.
  o Ensure there is clear and easy access to the load.
  o Use containers with handles.
  o Use rigid containers.
  

Adapted from Canadian Centre for Occupational Safety and Health Back Injury Prevention website.

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