If you work in materials handling, you are likely on your feet and on the move for most of your workday. Your tasks may require you to bend, squat, lift, reach, climb and stretch numerous times in a single day. Though you may appreciate the fact that you do not remain stagnant, you also likely understand that your job could cause you to suffer injuries.
Whether you work to stock materials in storage facilities or remove materials or products for distribution, you face many hazards on the job. In fact, materials handling is one of the most injury-prone industries in Georgia and across the United States. As a result, you undoubtedly want to keep your health and safety a top priority.
Tips for avoiding injury
Staying safe in the workplace can sometimes mean making adjustments. Your work conditions could fluctuate, and it is wise not to become complacent no matter how long you have worked in the same job. Some tips for working to avoid injuries while working in materials handling include:
- Adjusting to conditions: As colder weather hits, some warehouses can become cold inside, which increases the chance of muscle strains for cold workers. Wearing warm clothing could help keep muscles warm and lessen the likelihood of strains.
- Lifting correctly: You should remember to lift with your legs and not your back and to never attempt to lift materials that are too heavy for one person. It is also wise to bring materials close to your body before trying to lift them rather than lifting something out of reach.
- Using your judgment: If you have been working in this industry for some time, you likely have a keen eye for when a situation may be hazardous. Always use your judgment to determine whether you need help lifting an object or should use equipment.
- Using materials handling gear: Back support, lifting straps, gloves and other handling gear could help prevent unnecessary injuries.
Unfortunately, due to the constant flow of motion in materials handling, any normal day could turn into a scary one if you suffer injuries on the job.
Workers’ compensation
If you do end up suffering injuries in the workplace, you may feel frustrated. Still, you need to take the proper amount of time to focus on your recovery. Though you may worry about how your injury will affect your financial situation, you may want to remember that workers’ compensation could help.
