Experts' Return-to-Work Safety Tips

Many employees have been physically inactive for long periods during the COVID-19 pandemic. Inactivity is associated with a reduction in muscle strength and physical endurance. Overexertion, always a leading cause of on-the-job injuries, may lead to an increased number of workers’ compensation claims when workers who have been idle start working again.

Worker’ Comp Advisor compiled a list of general tips from safety, risk and ergonomic experts on how to prevent excessive workplace injuries when your business reopens and workers return.

1. Focus on re-education, motivation and reinforcement in safety training.

2. Review standard operating procedures, adjusting for administrative and engineering controls necessitated by COVID-19.

3. Encourage workers to report any physical discomfort to supervisors.

4. Implement general ergonomics awareness training.

5. Train workers in proper lifting and moving before and after injuries occur.

6. In a time of social distancing between workstations, incorporate controls to reduce worker bending and reaching.

7. Identify awkward postures and root causes. Address and adjust accordingly.

8. Focus on fitness and well-being.

9. Extend training to emphasize the benefits to a worker’s health.

10. Make it personal. For example, encourage workers to avoid extensive reaching, bending or twisting because it may impact their leisure activities.

11. Implement a wellness program that includes the importance of diet, conditioning, sleep and stress reduction.

12. Encourage workers to take breaks throughout the workday.

13. Limit overtime.

14. Consider having more employees working fewer hours, rather than having fewer employees working more hours.       

RELATED:

See NYSIF's COVID-19 Safety Guide for New York Businesses