Question

case study related to "lifting Hazards to human body in workplace"

Answer 1

Ans. Lifting,handling or carrying objects at work can result in musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs), including sprains and strains and other injuries. The risk of injury increases when bending, twisting, heavy loads, and awkward postures are involved. Effective ergonomic controls can reduce the risk and prevent injuries.

The risks

Injuries from lifting and handling of loads can occur in many occupations. Workers are exposed to risk when they lift, lower, or carry objects. Risk factors include:

• The weight of the load
• How close the load is to the body. A load lifted far from the body imposes more stress on the back than the same load lifted close to the body
• The size and shape of the load
• The distance the load has to be carried
• The initial height of the load and the vertical distance lifted
• Lifting in combination with twisting
• How long the load has to be carried
• The number and frequency of lifts performed

Lifting Principles

Lifting Stages

1. Preparation
2. Lifting
3. Carrying
4. Setting Down

1. Preparation

Before lifting or carrying, plan out your lift. Think about:

• How heavy/awkward is the load? Should I use mechanical means (e.g. a hand truck) or another person to help me with this lift? Is it possible to break the load into smaller parts?
• Where am I going with the load? Is the path clear of obstructions, slippery areas, overhangs, stairs, and other uneven surfaces? Are there closed doors that need to be opened?

2. Lifting

Get as close to the load as possible. Try to keep your elbows and arms close to your body. Keep your back straight during the lift by tightening the stomach muscles, bending at the knees, keeping the load close and centered in front of you, and looking up and ahead. Get a good handhold and do not twist while lifting. Do not jerk; use a smooth motion while lifting. If the load is too heavy to allow this, find someone to help you with the lift.

3. Carrying

Do not twist or turn the body; instead, move your feet to turn. Your hips, shoulders, toes, and knees should stay facing the same direction. Keep the load as close to your body as possible with your elbows close to your sides. If you feel fatigued, set the load down and rest for a few minutes. Don’t let yourself get so fatigued that you cannot perform proper setting down and lifting technique for your rest.

4. Setting Down

Set the load down in the same way you picked it up, but in the reverse order. Bend at the knees, not the hips. Keep your head up, your stomach muscles tight, and do not twist your body. Keep the load as close to the body as possible. Wait until the load is secure to release your handhold.

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