Strong Knee 4: Knee Care at Work
Posted in: Knee Ergonomics Printable Version: Strong Knee 4: Knee Care at Work.pdf
• Knees are often one of the last things we think about when we are setting up a job. Commonly, we stress our knees when we rush or push to get the job done.
• Jumping down from equipment, kneeling when working at floor level, working in a crouched position for long periods time – all of these are examples of stressful events to the knee that can usually be eliminated with an extra 5 seconds on the job or 5 minutes when prepping your job.
• To keep your knees healthy for years to come, try to think of the following tips as you set up your work today:
- Look for ways to raise work off of floor level to avoid awkward knee postures
- Alternate sides if you must kneel
- If you have to work at floor level – use knee pads, kneeling pads or at least a couple of pieces of cardboard
- Support yourself on nearby equipment when standing up from squatting or kneeling
- Always try to maintain three points of contact when climbing stairs or on/off equipment
- Replace your boots (or just the soles) if you notice a lot of wear
- If you want to understand the impact of a knee injury, take the time to talk to someone who has suffered. It may be all the motivation you need.