From Gettysburg Times
Spring Cleaning Safety Tips
Go Sports by Sarah Asper

With warmer weather knocking at our doors. Thoughts of house and yard work come to mind.

Spring Cleaning has individuals bringing out step stools or ladders, carrying large loads, and placing their necks and backs in precarious positions, all for sake of a cleaner home. Simple, easy tips can help prevent injury while preparing your homefor the warm weather.

Use proper body mechanics. When lifting objects, follow these general rules:

1. Keep feet at shoulder width. Maintaining a wide base of support helps you keep your balance as you lift heavy objects. Have one foot slightly ahead of the other foot.
2. Bend at the knees, not at the waist. many individuals have a tendency to bend at the waist, keeping knees straight. This poses great risk for injury to the lower back. If you are unable to squat down with both legs, drop one knee to the floor into a half kneeling positioning.
3. Lift your legs. Maintain a straight back, keeping your chest and head up. Straighten your legs, pushing yourself into a standing position.
4. Hold the head object or load close to your body. This brings the center of gravity closer to your body, decreases strain on your shoulders and back and allows you to lift a heavier object.
5. Use your feet to change direction. Twisting the body places your back at increased risk for injury. Change directions by moving your feet one at a time into the direction in which you would like to go. Keep your hips in line with your shoulders.
6. Set your load carefully down by again squatting or half kneeling.

Other spring safety tips include:

• Use step tools or step ladders to reach high shelves or the ceiling. If you can see what you are reaching for, there is less chance of something hidden falling down.
• Take breaks when cleaning ceilings or walls. Allow your neck and shoulders time to relax and return to a resting position. This decreases your risk of injury.
• When kneeling or stooping for long periods of time, use knee pads or pillows to protect your knees from the hard floor.
• Take water breaks and protect your skin from the sun if working outdoors for long periods of time.
• Remember to turn equipment off before servicing. According to the Annals of Emergency Medicine, over 80,000 individuals required emergency medical care from lawn mower injuries in 2004.
• Wear protective clothing if you will be using harsh chemicals. Rubber gloves and safety goggles may help prevent injury to your eyes or skin.

Please remember to contact your health care provider for assistance if you suffer from an injury while spring cleaning. Your physician may prescribe Physical therapy to help you recover from ailment.

[Printable Version]