Halifax Regional School Board
Serving 48,000 students in 136 schools, Halifax Regional School Board (HRSB) is the largest in Atlantic Canada. Within those schools, there are approximately 9,000 staff members operating in a variety of positions.
HAZARD:
HRSB’s Ergonomic Change Team identified a musculoskeletal injury trend when staff removed waste to the outside waste bins. Access was located at the top of the bin, through a heavy lid that needed to be manually held open.
CORRECTIVE ACTION:
The team identified the root cause of their injury trend and then researched solutions. One option was sourcing a different waste bin design that allowed access through a side door, meaning proper lifting processes could be followed.
OUTCOME:
HRSB worked with the supplier and has been switching out existing waste bins for the better suited design over the past three years. This has eliminated the need for staff to overreach when disposing of garbage.
Often, simple changes can reduce the likelihood of injury.
What have you done to prevent musculoskeletal injuries in your workplace?