Safety Index - STRATEGIES TO REDUCE THE RISK OF BACK STRAIN IN NURSING HOMES

REDUCING THE RISK - POSTURE

Is frequent or prolonged stooping involved?

Lifting a dependent person into a low bath involves significant stooping.

1. Two nurses placing patient in a bath
Use a mechanical hoist or a height adjustable shower trolley or a height adjustable bath, to reduce the stooping involved.
2. Nurse bathing patient in height adjustable shower trolley 3. Nurse bathing patient in height adjustable bath
 
Emptying deep linen trolleys involves a significant bend and reach for staff.

4. Staff member bending over to empty deep linen trolley

 Deep sinks result in excessive bending.

5. Staff member bending over to use deep sink.
A shallow trolley keeps items at a suitable height.

6. Staff member loading clothes washer from a trolley

 Raise the work height by using an upturned bowl or false bottom in the sink.
Do not put items on the floor that will have to be picked up later.

7. Staff member picking up clothes from floor.

Is significant sideways twisting involved?

Lifting in a confined space can prevent proper body positioning and restrict use of lifting aids. 8. Two nurses lifting patient from chair.

Increase the available space and use a slideboard to transfer without lifting.

9. Two nurses sliding patient on to a bed.

Is reaching above shoulder height involved?

Store heavy or bulky items that are used regularly at a convenient height.

10. Staff member collecting blankets from a store.

 Use steps for high shelves.

11. Staff member on secure steps.

Is one-handed lifting or carrying involved?

12. Staff member carrying full bucket one-handed. Use castors.

13. Staff member pushing bucket on castors.

Continue with Strategies to Reduce the Risk of Back Strain in Nursing Homes
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[Last Updated: May 1996 - Worksafe Western Australia]