1. Protecting Workers from Injuries
2A: Ergonomics
Protecting Workers from Injuries

2. Ergonomics
Musculoskeletal injuries (back injuries) are the leading cause of injury for cleaning personnel
Adjust backpack vacuum harnesses for proper fit
Stand-up straight
Life with the legs, not the back
Use extension poles so workers don’t have to bend over
Intent: The intent of this slide is to encourage cleaning personnel to use better ergonomics to protect their own health.
Most injuries to janitors are musculoskeletal injuries (back injuries) caused by improper lifting, bending over, using equipment improperly, etc.
Adjust backpack vacuum harnesses for proper fit
Stand-up straight
Life with the legs, not the back
Use extension poles so workers don’t have to bend over

3. Properly adjust the backpack’s harness

4. Use tools so you don’t have to bend over

5. Stand straight - use tools with extension poles

6. Keep your back straight when lifting

7. If it’s heavy – get help

8. Quiz What is the leading cause of injuries to janitors?:
Eating too much pizza
Burns from cleaning chemicals
Back injuries
None of the above
What is one of the biggest ergonomic problems associated with the use of backpack vacuums?
Too heavy
Too loud
Improperly adjusted harness
All of the above
Correct Answers:
1 – C
2 – Any are OK, but C is what we’re trying to reinforce

9. Quiz What should a janitor do if he/she has to bend over to work?
Don’t do the work
Stand straight and get an extension pole
Kneel down
All of the above
What should a janitor do when lifting something heavy?
Keep their back straight and lift with their legs
Get help
Make the load lighter so it is easier to move
Correct Answers:
3 – B
4 - D