Ontivity Resources

Sprains and strains are among the most common workplace injuries. They are painful and debilitating for employees.  Recent studies show that annually, sprains/strains account for one-third of all reported injuries in the construction industry.  These types of injuries are often caused by how we lift, lower, push, pull, or carry materials while performing our duties. Sprain/strain injuries can happen over a period or take only a quick moment and can take days or months to heal.  Preventing strain and sprain injuries is a lot easier than correcting them once the damage is done.

Today’s discussion will target 3 areas to help eliminate sprain/strain injuries in our workplace.

• AVOID CONDITIONS THAT CAN CAUSE SPRAIN/STRAIN INJURIES

• TAKE THE TIME TO PREPARE YOUR BODY

• USE PROPER LIFTING PRACTICES TO AVOID INJURY

AVOID CONDITIONS THAT CAN CAUSE SPRAIN/STRAIN INJURIES

Sometimes, repetitive job functions cause employees to ignore or forget about common safety measures, leading to sprain/strain injuries. Lifting, pushing, and overreaching are the most common causes of strains and sprains. Jobs that require employees to sit, stand, or bend in awkward positions for long periods can also lead to these types of injuries.  There are many ways to avoid sprain strain injuries.  Things like good housekeeping, exercising caution on slippery surfaces, and looking where you are placing your feet as you step off a ladder are just a few examples.  At the end of the day, there is not a one-size-fits-all solution but if we consider these types of injuries during our pre-work planning, tailgate meetings, and while performing assigned tasks then we can give ourselves a fighting chance. 

TAKE THE TIME TO PREPARE YOUR BODY

Construction is an athletic event! The importance of being warmed up before starting construction work is just like getting ready for a sporting event. Stretching is a means to avoid the most common body sprain/strain injuries. Stretching before lifting is especially helpful to avoid back injuries. As you begin to stretch, it’s important to listen to your body’s limits.  If a particular stretch is causing you pain, or discomfort, modify the stretch or take a break.  Getting into the habit of a pre-work warmup dramatically decreases the chances of a sprain/strain injury.    

USE PROPER LIFTING PRACTICES TO AVOID INJURY

Many strains and sprains occur because of poor material handling. Workers lifting things that weigh too much or lifting incorrectly can lead to serious soft tissue injuries. Get help with heavy loads. Do not try to move or lift an object you cannot handle. Break loads down into smaller parts or get help from a mechanical device such as pallet jacks or dollies. Also, ask for help from a coworker to lift heavy items, Ontivity policy is that equipment/material over 80 lbs. requires a two-person lift. Learn to look at something and understand your limitations and then acquire help by your needs.   

We all know that keeping our equipment and tools in good condition and operating smoothly is critical to doing good work. Your body is by far your most important piece of equipment and without it, nothing is getting done. Sprain/strain injuries were at the top of our list for injuries in 2023 and it will take all of us working together to avoid a repeat in 2024.

If you would like more information on this topic or any other safety-related topic, please reach out to the Ontivity safety team at safety@ontivity.com, and we will get you taken care of.