Whilst a trolley supplier may produce warehouse equipment that makes it easier to pull or push heavy loads, there remains the danger of muscle strain when lifting items on and off manual handling equipment. To minimise manual handling risks, Kai Tire, an Australian tyre company, has employed a physiotherapist to design a stretching program that aims to keep workers safe. Could this approach work in the warehouse?
Kai Tire recognises that all its workers who change tyres need preparation for lifting heavy tyres up to four metres in diameter as well as handling heavy equipment. The company engaged the services of a physiotherapist who designed a bespoke stretching exercise program based on the sort of body movements technicians make when maintaining vehicle tyres. The expert observed how the body twists, turns, lifts and stretches.
The physiotherapist then created a program of over fifty exercises, some which are performed in the worker’s own homes, others on the workplace floor. The exercise sequence can be varied to keep it interesting. Before manual handling tasks are performed, the exercises warm muscles so that the worker does not feel sore after the task.
The exercise program resulted in workers at the tyre company suffering fewer strains and sprains.
Warehouses follow strict health and safety policies, using warehouse equipment with safety features and safety training that teaches workers how to safely lift and move heavy items. Perhaps, in addition, workers should be encouraged to do exercises that prepare the body for heavy lifting.
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