Sprains and Strains in Construction/Pulling Cables
Each year in the U.S., 31,000 construction workers seek
medical attention due to sprains and strains suffered on the job.
These injuries happen when the human body is forced
to work beyond its limits.
Lifting, pulling, pushing, reaching, bending, and other common
construction activities can cause these injuries.
The pain resulting from these injuries can last
a lifetime and affect construction workers' lives
at work and at home.
But these injuries can be prevented.
This video shows how overexertion at construction sites
can lead to worker injuries.
The video will also show what employers
must do so that the work can be done more safely.
Employers have a responsibility to provide a safe workplace
and required protective equipment.
You'll see that taking the right protective steps
can help prevent these injuries.
An experienced commercial electrician was wiring
a newly built commercial building.
He had been doing this kind of work for several years.
While standing on a ladder that was too short
for the job, he pulled long runs of a heavy gauge wire.
He then attached the wiring above his head to the ceiling.
The job involves awkward pulling movements
while reaching overhead.
After several days on the job, the stress on the
electrician's arms, neck, back, and shoulders
has become too much.
As a result, the pain the electrician feels has
affected his ability to do the work.
Let's look at the events leading up to these injuries,
and see how they could have been prevented.
As before, the electrician is attaching wiring
to the ceiling.
But this time, he is standing on an elevated
platform that is the right height for the job.
This reduces his overhead movements,
and prevents stress to his body.
Also, as he attaches the wiring,
he is now using a mechanical wire puller
to get the wire he needs.
This way, he doesn't hurt himself by pulling the wire
by hand and straining his body as he did before.
Making these types of small changes in work
activities can prevent painful injuries.
This example shows the importance of employers
using OSHA's ergonomics guidelines.
These are guidelines designed so workers
can avoid stress and injury to their bodies.
These types of injuries are preventable.
Follow OSHA's guidelines at work sites.
By following the guidelines, workers can avoid
suffering a lifetime of pain from these injuries.
If you would like more information,
contact OSHA at www.osha.gov
or 1-800-321-OSHA
that's 1-800-321-6742
