Seed Guide 2007 pgs 01/41 - McKenzie Seeds

• use tools to reduce work
- use a wheelbarrow or wagon to
transport supplies
- use power tools for repetitive
work
- use an extended handle to reduce
the reach
• keep digging and cutting tools sharp
• consider using a low, padded kneeling
stool, with side handles to help you
stand up, when working at ground
level
• be creative! Adapt or create your tools
for your comfort
- pad the handle for hand comfort
- use knee pads or a foam pad for
kneeling
- wrap a slippery handle with tape
to improve your grip on it (hockey
stick tape will do)
KNOW YOUR LIMITS
• be realistic! - Your body is only ready
to perform at the level of effort and
endurance it is regularly used to
G A R D E N I N G S A F E T Y T I P S
• work within your physical strength.
Occupational Health Standards list safe
lifting loads as: 64 lbs for middle aged
men and 28 lbs for women, but a safe
lift is less than this when the load is:
- low to the ground or overhead
- deep in a truck or difficult to
reach or
- an awkward shape
• pace yourself.
- take a break when you’re tired
- spread heavy lifting and digging
tasks over a week rather than a
weekend
- spread major projects throughout
spring, summer and fall. Take
time to recover between projects
• rotate tasks. Avoid over-use injuries by
working in different positions and by
doing different activities throughout
the day
"POSITION" YOURSELF FOR SUCCESS
• find your “easy zone” - a comfortable
posture for your body to work in
• try to do your work in the “zone”
• be warned that continuous activity
outside your easy zone may cause
sprains and strains
• avoid “out of zone” postures by:
- moving with your work. Keep
your work in front of and close to
your body to avoid reaching and
twisting
- using tools to assist you (eg. stools,
sprinkler, hose caddy)
- positioning your body at the
height of your work
• can’t avoid an awkward position? A
slow reverse stretch every 15 minutes
will reduce strain
• lift with your knees slightly bent and
your back straight. Avoid twisting or
reaching
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