There is no doubt that anyone who works in an hourly position has an extremely physical job. I was wondering if the Retirees and "Old-timers" out there could share some tips on how to make it to the younger folks.
We are taught Safe Work Methods, HABITS Training, Space and Visibility, etc;but what is some simple advice that is not discussed much? In my opinion, safety and "working at a brisk pace" don't mix too well, its easy to make mistakes. When I first started with this company three decades ago, the weight limit was fifty pounds per package. Now to be competitive, we handle larger packages up to three times the weight. The Surgeon that sewed up both of my hernias, stated that the Human Body is designed to handle fifty pounds. It seems that we are pushed to do more and more. TP60s, PAS, Industrial Engineering seems to think that we are machines that can go faster and do more. We are only human, and we have limits.
Over the years, I've had co-workers who have suffered neck, shoulder, back, knees, ankle, and feet injuries. I'm hoping that the following advice and tips from others will help us make it to Pension Age without being in a walker.
In no particular order:
1. The old lift with your legs and not your back. Your leg muscles are the strongest ones in your body, the back muscles are among the weakest. Squat down, hold package close to your body, lift with legs. Use Handtrucks or get help whenever possible.
2. Get Rest. Your body needs at least eight hours rest to repair itself at night. Your brain needs sleep too. Try not to eat a couple of hours before bedtime. Take your Lunch Hour, you need it.
3. Watch what you eat. You need good food in you to function. We burn a lot of calories, eat a good breakfast to start your day.
4. Some warmup exercise before work will loosen up your body so you don't strain it so bad. Examples: walking, stretching, isometrics, etc.
5.Proper footwear. Wear good workshoes or boots that will support your feet and ankles. The tennis shoes may be comfortable, but are a poor choice in the longrun.
6.Bad dogs. Dogs are by nature pack animals. Most of them that will bite will try to get behind you and bite at your heel to bring you down. My experience is to speak to them in a stern voice and face them, don't ever turn your back toward them. Walk backward to the truck if need be, use the package or DIAD to protect yourself as a last resort.
7. Don't smoke,or drink too much in your personal time. Personally, I can function better Monday if I leave the adult beverages alone Sunday.
Its okay to party sometimes,just don't overdo it. Your Family will appreciate you more too.
8.Learn to enjoy life. Exercise your mind, get involved in your community and make a difference. Help people less fortunate. There is more to life than just making money.
We are taught Safe Work Methods, HABITS Training, Space and Visibility, etc;but what is some simple advice that is not discussed much? In my opinion, safety and "working at a brisk pace" don't mix too well, its easy to make mistakes. When I first started with this company three decades ago, the weight limit was fifty pounds per package. Now to be competitive, we handle larger packages up to three times the weight. The Surgeon that sewed up both of my hernias, stated that the Human Body is designed to handle fifty pounds. It seems that we are pushed to do more and more. TP60s, PAS, Industrial Engineering seems to think that we are machines that can go faster and do more. We are only human, and we have limits.
Over the years, I've had co-workers who have suffered neck, shoulder, back, knees, ankle, and feet injuries. I'm hoping that the following advice and tips from others will help us make it to Pension Age without being in a walker.
In no particular order:
1. The old lift with your legs and not your back. Your leg muscles are the strongest ones in your body, the back muscles are among the weakest. Squat down, hold package close to your body, lift with legs. Use Handtrucks or get help whenever possible.
2. Get Rest. Your body needs at least eight hours rest to repair itself at night. Your brain needs sleep too. Try not to eat a couple of hours before bedtime. Take your Lunch Hour, you need it.
3. Watch what you eat. You need good food in you to function. We burn a lot of calories, eat a good breakfast to start your day.
4. Some warmup exercise before work will loosen up your body so you don't strain it so bad. Examples: walking, stretching, isometrics, etc.
5.Proper footwear. Wear good workshoes or boots that will support your feet and ankles. The tennis shoes may be comfortable, but are a poor choice in the longrun.
6.Bad dogs. Dogs are by nature pack animals. Most of them that will bite will try to get behind you and bite at your heel to bring you down. My experience is to speak to them in a stern voice and face them, don't ever turn your back toward them. Walk backward to the truck if need be, use the package or DIAD to protect yourself as a last resort.
7. Don't smoke,or drink too much in your personal time. Personally, I can function better Monday if I leave the adult beverages alone Sunday.
Its okay to party sometimes,just don't overdo it. Your Family will appreciate you more too.
8.Learn to enjoy life. Exercise your mind, get involved in your community and make a difference. Help people less fortunate. There is more to life than just making money.
MAKE DOUGH
