Statistics show that around 80% of us will experience back pain at some stage in our lives. In this day and age a number of industries such as transport, sales representing, and mobile services require workers to be on the road for extended periods of time during their work day. Spending long hours driving in a static posture can contribute to prolonged discomfort or pain in the back. Sitting in the same position for long hours gripping the steering wheel and being exposed to vibration from the road can contribute to the wear and tear on the back. Often injuries sustained to the lower back due to static postures occur over a period of time and are often overlooked as being priorities by employers. Being proactive as an employer now and having a vehicle ergonomic assessment completed on your work vehicles may save you money in the run through reduced claim costs and loss of time injuries.

Advantage Injury Management Services have experienced occupational therapists and physiotherapists who provide vehicle ergonomic assessments to promote safe and appropriate sitting postures and postural habits when completing driving duties.

Here are a few things to consider in preventing injuries caused by static seated postures that may reduce the injury risk to your staff:

1. Vary work activities as much as possible during the day.
2. Take a break from driving every couple of hours.
3. Make sure staff get out of the vehicle as often as possible, move about and carry out small stretches where possible.
4. Discourage carrying out any sudden intense physical activity (such as lifting, bending or stretching) without warming up first.
5. Make small adjustments to your driving position every couple of hours.
6. Ensure staff adopt appropriate postures when driving so they are sitting correctly and are confident in adjusting the seat controls (even if they regularly change vehicles). This is where Advantage can help!

If you would like more information or to book a vehicle ergonomic assessment simply contact the friendly staff at Advantage Injury Management Services today!

Blog - Karly Stockwell (Occupational Therapist)