28 Workplace Safety & Prevention Services
Closing the Loop: Setting Up a Health & Safety System in Your Small Business
common Hazards
There are a number of hazards that are common in small business, regardless of sector.
musculoskeletal Disorders
Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) come
in many different forms: sprains and
strains, neck and back injuries, disorders
like carpal tunnel syndrome and tendinitis,
to name a few. The point is, these injuries
can have devastating consequences: pain
and suffering for the individual; pain in
the pocketbook for your business and the
compensation system.
Many of these injuries are related to
overexertion; and much overexertion in
the workplace can be related to material
handling, with lifting, pushing or pulling.
You can prevent or significantly reduce
injuries related to manual handling by:
Using mechanical devices such as carts,
dollies, forklifts
Lifting smaller loads
Using proper lifting techniques like
keeping the object close to your body and
using your knees instead of your back
Avoiding awkward postures like bending,
twisting or reaching
Getting help when an item is too heavy
Varying your activities so you're not using
the same muscles for an extended period
of time
Taking appropriate breaks and
incorporating team lifting if need be
Storing heavier items on lower shelves
Push rather than pull
slips, trips, and Falls
In the workplace, slips and trips can be
caused by uneven ground, debris, wet
surfaces or untidy work areas. Prevent these
injuries by:
Wearing appropriate non-slip footwear
Pay close attention to the weather
conditions when working outdoors
Maintaining good housekeeping: keep work
spaces clear, clean up spills immediately
Check worksites for uneven and slippery
ground
Don't take shortcuts
Keeping your line of sight clear when
carrying large items
Falls from ladders are not uncommon in the
workplace. If you're working with ladders,
follow these precautions:
Make sure you have the right ladder for the
task at hand
Use a ladder that has slip resistant feet
Place the ladder on a firm, level surface;
don't lean against flexible or movable
objects
Keep the area free of obstructions
Position your centre of gravity between the
siderails
Don't stand on the top two rungs of the
ladder
Maintain a base of one foot out for every
four feet of height
Don't carry anything in your hands
while climbing
