Dr Joanne Crawford on links between musculoskeletal & psychosocial risks Hi Wendy
Agree, we are all getting heavier. Taking this from a hierarchy of control context can we eliminate the manual handling? If we can't what measures can be put in place. One solution in a Swedish hospital was the use of lifting aids. The argument was it took too long and the patients didn't like it. When it was explained to the patients why the lifting aids were needed, the patients were fine with this new method. Need to get everyone who is involved in the process.
There needs to be a change in the viewpoint about fit for purpose, however, we should be designing to fit everyone, not just the strongest. With demographic change we need to think about diversity in risk assessment. Absolutely agree - participation by those doing the jobs and tasks is critical in any change.