Safety: Body Mechanics & Ergonomics

Using Body Mechanics• Muscles work best when used correctly

• Correct use of muscles makes lifting, pulling, and pushing easier

• Prevents unnecessary fatigue and strain and saves energy

• Prevents injury to self and others

Copyright © 2004 by Thompson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Using Body MechanicsThink, Pair, Share

What is an example of not using your muscles

correctly?

(1 minute)

• Proper Posture (position of body parts in relation to each other)

• Body Mechanics (using all body parts efficiently and in a careful way)

are necessary in to order to limit stress and

strain on the musculoskeletal system

Proper Body Movement

Good Posture??

Good Posture??

Good Posture??

Rules of Good Body Mechanics• Maintain a broad base of support• Bend from the hips and knees to get

close to an object

• Use the strongest muscles to do the

job• Use the weight of your body to help

push or pull an object

• Carry heavy objects close to the

body Copyright © 2004 by Thompson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

When Do We Use Body Mechanics?Write down a couple of examples of when we use body mechanics in

the following situations?

• In everyday activities:

• In Health Care setting:

cleaning, carrying books to schooland to class, getting in and out of a car

When assisting a patient to a chair, when picking up supplies, when positioning a patient in bed.

At all times, that you have to lift, move or carry an item

Good Posture??

Back Supports• Required by many health care facilities

• To be worn when lifting or moving patients

• Effectiveness is controversial, but does remind wearer to use body mechanics

• Should be correct size in order to provide the maximum benefit

• It should fit snugly when needed and can be loosened at other times

Copyright © 2004 by Thompson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Back Supports

Copyright © 2004 by Thompson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

13

Ergonomics Applied science to promote the

safety and well-being of a person by

adapting the environment and using

techniques to prevent injuries

Copyright © 2004 by Thompson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Components ofErgonomics

Correct placement of furniture and equipment

Training in required muscle movements

Efforts to avoid repetitive motions An awareness of the environment to

prevent injuries

Copyright © 2004 by Thompson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Components ofErgonomics (continued)

Prevention of accident and injury Centers around people and the

immediate environment Health care worker must follow

safety regulations Remember, health care workers have a

legal responsibility to protect the patient from harm and injury