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CORE PERSON HANDLING SKILLS
Risks and hazardous postures
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Postural risks Handlers are also exposed to risks from postural activities that do not involve a transfer, eg supporting limbs, clinical procedures, washing, dressing or feeding. These activities also typically involve components of static muscle work that may compound the risk (see chapter 4). Kneeling bases have advantages and disadvantages but all kneeling is linked with developing knee pain and lower back pain, especially if for 15 minutes or longer (Dieen et al 1997; Harkness et al 2003; Nahit et al 2001). With both knees fully flexed: ● joints at the end of their range with more discomfort (Kee & Karwowski 2001; Pheasant 1991) ● centre of gravity low and body relatively stable ● involves flexion of the spine, static muscle contraction, increased compression loading with increased intradiscal pressure.
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Fig 10.4 Fig 10.5
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High kneeling: ● increased external pressure on the knees and is linked to knee pain (Dieen et al 1997). Kneeling on one knee: ● allows movement over a larger base ● can get closer to the load ● found to be more uncomfortable than high kneel (Chung et al 2003).
Fig 10.6
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Where possible, reduce the time spent in kneeling positions and consider use of kneeling equipment, such as ergonomically designed kneelers, to reduce the strain.
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The following are examples of hazardous postures:
10 Core person handling skills
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Fig 10.2
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Fig 10.3
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