Understanding Ergonomics and How it Affects Your Cleaning
Business
Ergonomics has been a "buzzword" throughout many office
buildings these days, but it is an area that many in the
cleaning industry have not addressed. Understanding ergonomics
along with using ergonomically designed products and procedures
in your cleaning business can prevent injuries and help your
employees perform their routine tasks better and more
efficiently.
The U.S. Department of Labor statistics suggests that of all
types of labor in America, cleaning personnel were fifth most
likely to be injured on the job. In the janitorial industry,
many of the injuries that occur are muscle and joint pain and
other related injuries. These injuries can be caused by the
constant, strenuous activity that is placed on cleaning workers.
Problems can occur as workers use awkward postures and positions
that are sustained for long periods of time. Rinsing out heavy
mops, washing down floors and walls, and lifting heavy trash
barrels can strain the back, neck, shoulders and wrists. The
problem intensifies as much of the work your employees do is
repetitive.
So what is an ergonomic product? Ergonomic products are designed
to fit the worker, rather than physically forcing the worker to
fit the equipment. The objective of using ergonomic products is
to reduce stress on the body. Plus, using ergonomic products and
performing cleaning tasks properly can help minimize injury.
By incorporating ergonomic equipment and techniques in to your
business procedures, you can help your workers stay injury free
and increase their productivity.