Ergonomics and working environment in the warehouse

Warehouse work involves many repetitive movements, lifting and time on your feet. This makes ergonomics and work environment more than good advice — it's what determines whether your body holds up throughout a working life. Damage to the back and joints rarely occurs from a single heavy lift, but from many unsuitable movements over time.

• 01Stand close to the load with feet in good position.
• 02Bend at the knees and keep your back straight — lift with your legs.
• 03Keep the load close to your body throughout the lift.
• 04Avoid twisting the back—move your feet instead.
• 05Lift smoothly and without jerking, and set down the same way.

The best back advice is to avoid lifting with your back when you can let a tool do the work. Pallet jacks trucks hand trucks lift tables and roller conveyors are not signs of laziness but of good working environment. Assess heavy or unwieldy loads and get a tool or colleague instead of pushing yourself.

Arrange the space so the most frequent tasks happen at a good working height — neither with arms high above your head nor deep down. Vary your working positions during the day so the same stress does not constantly hit the same joints. Small breaks and switching between tasks gives your body a chance to recover.

Work environment is also noise lighting temperature traffic between trucks and pedestrians and mental work environment such as pace and cooperation. Clear escape routes good order and clear marking prevent accidents. Use the personal protective equipment appropriate for the task such as safety shoes and visible work clothes.

When you lift correctly use aids and contribute to a safe environment you protect both yourself and colleagues — and you stay able to work not just today but long-term.