Sprains and Strains
Safe Work Practices
If you are required to remove garbage, here are some tips to help prevent sprains and strains:
- Reduce lifting during garbage removal tasks by using garbage handling bags with wheels or garbage cans with wheels for garbage collection when possible.
- Handling bags have a frame with one side open to allow for easy disposal of garbage without reaching into and pulling bags up and out. The bags should be able to slide off the cart without lifting.
- Limit the size and weight of these bags and provide handles to decrease lifting hazards.
- Use garbage cans that have a frame versus a solid can to promote ease of emptying. This will prevent plastic bag liners from sticking to the inside of the can. If the garbage bag gets stuck in the can, you must lift a lot more weight to release the vacuum than just the weight of the garbage.
- Use anti-cling products that can be applied to the inside of your garbage can to prevent the plastic bag from sticking to the inside of the can.
- Limit the size of garbage containers to limit the weight of the load employees must lift and dump.
- Place receptacles in unobstructed and easy-to-reach places.
- Install dumpsters at or below grade level.
Real-life Scenario
Back Injury While Removing Garbage
Alex, a restaurant employee, was tasked with taking out the garbage using a solid plastic can without wheels. The garbage bag stuck to the can due to a vacuum effect, making it hard to lift. While pulling the heavy bag, Alex strained his lower back. The bag then tore, spilling contents. Bending down to clean up further aggravated the injury.
The can had no anti-cling treatment, and there were no wheeled containers or ergonomic tools to reduce lifting strain. The garbage area was also poorly placed, requiring awkward movements.
Key Lessons:
- Use wheeled or framed cans with anti-cling treatments.
- Place garbage receptacles in accessible areas.
- Provide tools and training to prevent lifting injuries.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
2-4. Julie is asked to take the restaurant garbage out to the dumpster. What safe work practice can she use to reduce or prevent sprains and strains?
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