Truck Driver Ergonomics: fitting the truck for the driver.
Applying ergonomic principles in the workplace can greatly reduce the risk factors for injury and musculoskeletal disorders.
Common risk factors: awkward posture, excessive force to move objects, repetitive prolonged actions and localized pressure.
For truck drivers ergonomics are especially important. Sitting improperly puts stress on the back and puts the driver at risk for injury, especially when driving for long periods of time.
Before starting work, drivers should:
- adjust the seat
- adjust the steering wheel, with elbows close to your sides
- adjust mirrors so that they can we seen with out twisting
Just as important as the drivers posture when driving, is how the drivers exits the truck as well. Jumping from the cab puts an extreme amount of force on the back: up to 8x’s body weight!
When exiting the truck, drivers should always maintain 3 point contact: with two hands and one foot used to position body for exit and entry & two hands gripping handles and one foot supporting the body.
And always remember to take a break, walk around and stretch a bit!
Resources:
WorkSafe BC: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZHO_EThsKps
OSHA: https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/ergonomics/identifyprobs.html
