Injuries on construction sites are common -- in fact, 751 construction workers died on the job in 2010, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. But many thousands more were only injured, and some of the most common injuries are muscle sprains and strains.
Reducing injuries and deaths in the construction workplace not only saves suffering, it can also save money. In fact, each accident costs money -- Liberty Mutual Insurance Company estimates that injuries cost the construction industry over $13 billion in 2005.
In an effort to reduce injuries due to strains and sprains, some construction companies have begun mandatory stretching and aerobics programs. General contractor Skanska, for example, developed an Injury Free Environment initiative that includes mandatory morning stretching. The morning workouts last about 10 minutes, and double as an opportunity to bring up safety issues.
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| Job Site Stretching |
"After the stretches, everyone breaks up into groups to talk about the work schedule and bring up any safety concerns," said Darin Magee, general superintendent of a hospital construction project in Memphis, in a newspaper article.
Sprains happen when a ligament (which connects muscle to bones) is stretched too far or tears. This happens when it is suddenly twisted, such as when a worker falls from a ladder. Strains can happen from a one-time incident, or they can develop when a worker repeats a stressful motion frequently.
Symptoms of sprains include swelling, bruising, pain, and the inability to use the joint. A strain can knock a worker off the job immediately, and keep him off for months.
So what can you do to prevent strains? A program funded by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries Safety and Health Investment Project developed a stretching program for construction workers. The Washington State program suggests four steps: 1) Educate workers about strains and their causes; 2) Help workers recognize the symptoms of strains; 3) Train workers how to prevent strains, such as with a stretching program; 4) Support your workers as they take responsibility for their health.
The program recommends a series of 11 stretches, for a total work out of 20 to 30 minutes. The stretches are available on a poster that can be downloaded here.
It may seem that 20 minutes at the beginning of the workday is a long time, and it may be tough to persuade your workers to do the workout, but it could prevent some serious pain! And, even if it doesn't, your workers will enjoy the relaxing and stimulating benefits of a good stretch before they begin work.





