Housekeeping staff are often at risk of musculoskeletal injury (MSI) while performing their daily duties. Staff at Bevan Lodge in Abbotsford had concerns about MSI risk related to the collection and removal of garbage. To identify and address these concerns, staff and management at Bevan Lodge collaborated with OHSAH to examine staff concerns and develop practical, low-cost modifications to the garbage carts and dumpster. Modified garbage cart at Bevan Lodge
Task analysis, signs and symptoms questionnaires, interviews, and guidelines for maximum acceptable pushing forces were used to identify and assess risk factors and to explore potential solutions. The task analysis was developed through direct observation and video analysis. Snook tables were used to compare measured pushing forces with maximum allowable limits. The assessment revealed that there was a risk of MSI to staff when removing garbage bags from carts, pushing carts, and throwing bags into the dumpster.
Several recommendations emerged from the assessment and collaboration with Bevan Lodge staff. The facility Rehabilitation Coordinator trained staff on proper body mechanics when manually handling garbage bags. Several modifications to the cart, bins, and dumpster were also made, including installing a pulley system to assist in opening the dumpster lid.
These controls were implemented and trialed, and three months after the modifications were put in place, staff were pleased with the impact they had on perceived and actual risk of injury and discomfort. In particular, they liked the higher handle on the carts, as it reduced the need to bend down while pushing. Staff also found the carts considerably easier to push because of the larger wheel size. In addition, staff noted that the dumpster lid was lighter and required much less effort to open.
Photos: A pulley system, in combination with a new plastic dumpster lid and an anchor to which to fasten the rope, ease the process of loading the dumpster. The entire project, including the cost of modifications to the dumpster and garbage carts cost approximately $2000. This project is an excellent demonstration of how a low-cost solution- modifying carts and garbage dumpsters- can greatly reduce the risk of MSI to staff when collecting and removing garbage. These types of solution can be implemented with existing equipment and should be considered before purchasing new carts or high-cost garbage disposal units.
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Bevan Lodge Garbage Disposal
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