Repetitive Strain Injuries, Forklifts and Ergonomics

Over the past 20 years, businesses throughout North America have begun to recognize the risks associated with lower back pain (LBP), repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) and musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs). As 3 of the most common causes behind injury-related absenteeism and workers’ compensation claims in North America, such injuries have a significant impact on the overall economy as businesses lose billions of dollars in lost productivity, wages, and workplace insurance claims. In response to this development, businesses and forklift manufacturers have begun investing in a long neglected area of occupational health and safety – that of operator ergonomics.

How Inadequate Ergonomics Harm Your Bottom-line:

As an occupation, forklift operators are at a high risk of developing repetitive strain and musculoskeletal injuries since they spend an inordinate amount of time in a stationary or seated position. As with other professions that require employees to spend long, uninterrupted periods of time in a seated position, forklift operators are at risk of developing muscle strains, soreness and cramping in their back, neck, shoulders and arms. However, unlike their desk-bound counterparts, forklift operators are regularly subjected to additional movements and strains that exasperate an already detrimental situation.

Over the course of a regular workday, it is not uncommon for a forklift operator to shift into an awkward position or contort themselves in an effort to maintain visibility while maneuvering their equipment. This is particularly prevalent in confined, indoor workplaces as forklift operators are regularly forced to avoid obstacles, navigate through narrow aisles and around tight corners. And, since forklifts are designed without a suspension system, even the most basic operations tend to subject a forklift operator to incessant vibrations and jolts. Taken together, these two factors alone may prematurely degrade the vulnerable joints and connective tissues of the body, as well as gradually compress the spinal column and cause damage to the delicate discs between the vertebrae. 

Even before taking the physical risks associated with RSIs and MSIs into consideration, poorly designed operator ergonomics can threaten the overall productivity and profitability of any business or operation. In the absence of ergonomically designed supports and equipment, forklift operators are far more likely to experience high levels of fatigue which may lead to decreased alertness, fatigue and physical strain, poor decision-making and confusion. Fatigued operations are not only unable to maintain optimal levels of productivity, they also pose a significantly higher risk to the business’s property, inventory, equipment, and co-workers alike.

How Stärke Equipment Innovations Can Help:

To ensure that the end of an operator’s shift is just as productive as the beginning, Stärke’s new XVI series of counterbalanced forklifts includes a number of ergonomic features and improvements when compared to other, similar models.

On a basic level, designing an ergonomic forklift begins with the design and arrangement of the operator’s seat and the vehicle’s control system. Unlike the equipment they operate, forklift operators rarely come in standard sizes and dimensions. To promote proper posture regardless of the operator`s physical features, the XVI series of forklifts is equipped with an adjustable suspension seat and steering column, an ample foot well to allow the foot pedals operated at a comfortable angle, and a long operator assist grip for easy movement in and out of the forklift. 

As part of this systemic approach to operator comfort and safety, Stärke’s new range of XVI forklifts also includes a number of innovative parts and components which limit the physical strain of operators even further. With a newly designed wide-view mast system, Stärke effectively limits the health and safety risks that result from poor visibility. To reduce the noise and vibration, the XVI was engineered to include dampening devices that insulate the engine and a one-piece floating cabin further reduces the vibration felt within the operator’s compartment. 

Taken as a whole, the innovative engineering and ergonomic features included in Stärke’s new XVI series of counterbalanced forklifts represent a categorical improvement over other models within its class. In this way, Stärke continues to demonstrate its commitment to develop product solutions based upon emerging market forces, customer needs and changes to our environment. There’s strength in numbers, and Stärke is strength. 

For more information on Stärke products, pricing or availability, please contact your nearest Stärke Material Handling Dealer. Locations throughout Canada or the USA.

www.starkeforklift.com

Local: (905)-227-7554  |  Toll free: 1-877-435-4352