Preventing Work-related Illness: why Forklift Ergonomics are Vital

June 2, 2020

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Preventing Work-related Illness: why Forklift Ergonomics are Vital

According to statistics from HSE, 1.4 million working people in the UK suffer from a work-related illness. Amongst the most commonly reported are musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) which are injuries that affect movement of the body. Lower back pain is one of the most common examples and one of the most costly.

Major causes of MSD are manual handling and awkward or exhausting body positions, making forklift operators high risk. Working for long periods in an uncomfortable or unnatural posture can have a detrimental impact on the body, particularly if regular breaks aren’t taken.

The Importance of Forklift Ergonomics

This is where ergonomic design comes in. As illnesses like MSD are somewhat invisible and are often caused by repetition of discomfort, ergonomic consideration is something that can be potentially overlooked. Employers and employees alike may think that aches and pains will go away with time but what begins as a slight inconvenience may become chronic and even inhibit work capability.

Poor forklift ergonomics can lead to greater costs, potential lawsuits, higher turnover, increased number of sick days, lower productivity and loyalty, as well as having a catastrophic impact on the worker’s life.

In 2018/19 498,000 workers reported having work-related musculoskeletal disorders and took an average of 13.8 sick days per illness, accounting for 29% of all working days lost through work-related ill health. Many of these cases could have been lessened or completely prevented with efficient ergonomics.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN CAUSES OF ILL HEALTH FOR FORKLIFT OPERATORS?

There are multiple factors to take into account to ensure safe forklift operation. Forklift drivers spend much of their working day sitting and twisting their upper bodies and these repetitive, unnatural postures can lead to serious strain. This strain, particularly on the lower back is amplified by shock and whole body vibration (WBV) through the seat, the steering wheel and the floor panel of the forklift. To counter, WBV Mitsubishi forklift trucks utilise some of the best ergonomic technology to ensure optimum comfort and safety for operators.

The operators can pose a danger to their own health if they aren’t properly trained for the specific forklift they are using. Forklift drivers should take regular breaks to stretch their muscles out of uncomfortable positions and to avoid fatigue.

The Ovako Working Posture Analysis System (OWAS) is used for determining the risk level of harm caused by working postures. Effective forklift ergonomics can reduce the likelihood or at least the severity of work-related ill health.

HOW TO PREVENT INJURIES AND ILLNESS IN THE WAREHOUSE

There are a variety of preventative methods and practices which an employer can put in place to ensure the safest possible environment for their workers. If the following measures are implemented not only will staff be safer but they will also be more productive.

The ergonomics of material handling equipment should be considered before purchase/use. They should provide lumbar support, easy accessibility, high visibility, easy to reach controls, vibration dampening and noise reduction – all of which will reduce the possibility of injury significantly.

Employers should:

Ensure all staff are appropriately trained on the specific machines in use
Ensure all floor hazards are known to operators and are dealt with swiftly and efficiently
Ensure control measures are in place: levelling of surfaces, speed limits and ramps
Ensure optimum visibility in the facility with the use of mirrors
Ensure vehicle maintenance and servicing is completed regularly

Forklift Operators should:

Take regular breaks and remember to stretch muscles throughout the day
Ensure their back is supported and pedals are within easy reach
Avoid straining for visibility where possible
Wear the correct PPE: gloves, high-vis, etc.

According to a scientific study by the University of Žilina, improvement of ergonomic conditions is a factor that can be primarily influenced by the Forklift Manufacturer and secondly by the right type of forklift for the task required. At Multy Lift, we can help you to choose the right forklift for your business needs.

MITSUBISHI ERGONOMIC FORKLIFTS

Mitsubishi are at the forefront of ergonomic forklift design, their forklifts are intuitive and comfortable to use for extended periods of time.

The GRENDiA and TREXiA diesel and LP Gas forklift models are crafted with the operator in mind, both have a wide range of features to ensure comfort during operation. These features include the following:

All-round visibility: achieved through fitted LED lights, low counterweight design for high visibility whilst reversing, clear-view narrow masts and slim lift cylinders which keep forks and load in view without strain.
Intuitive steering: fully hydrostatic and angle-sensitive steering for effortless precision, adjustable steering columns with position memory functions to create generous leg room, intuitive fingertip controls, large and easy to reach cowl-mounted hydraulic levers, back up handles and horn buttons for reversing comfortably and fully adjustable armrests
Brakes and pedals: vacuum-boosted automotive-style pedals at the optimum angle to avoid leg strain, fully hydrostatic drum brakes for excellent control with minimal effort, electronically controlled parking brakes for safe braking without restricting knee and leg movement, precise torque converters and compact turbochargers for controlled acceleration
Seat: fully adjustable, full suspension cloth or vinyl seats with hip restraints and complete lumbar support for a relaxed driving position
Noise reduction: rubber-mounted components, fully insulated steel engine hoods, helical gears, enclosed wheel arches, low noise vibration from fully floating powertrains and a noise level of just 78 dBA
Other features: heaters and air conditioners and wide steps with grab handles

The EDiA electric forklift range excels in efficient ergonomics. These forklifts are renowned for their driveability and intuitive design with smooth, instinctive controls and angled counterweighting. The EDiA range has a choice of models offering distinct benefits so that you can choose the best forklift for your business.

Multy Lift stock a wide selection of highly ergonomic forklifts from renowned manufacturers such as Mitsubishi, Aisle Master and Combilift to ensure your workers are safe and comfortable at work. Call us today on 01623 794 094 to discuss your forklift requirements.