Ergonomics in the care sector

Good care starts with yourself! Save your back, you only have one!

WHAT DOES THIS ERGONOMICS FOR HEALTHCARE TRAINING COVER?

Back complaints and physical overload are still too common in the care sector. Whether in hospital care, elderly care or disability care, moving patients involves lifting heavy loads, pulling and pushing with a bent back.

In addition to using aids such as patient lifts, slide sheets or electrically adjustable beds to limit the strain on the back, good working technique remains the most important focus in care.

In this training, we learn, through simple practical exercises, to move correctly and adopt the right working posture.

The care sector is generally known as the “soft sector”. But when it comes to lifting and carrying, working in healthcare is anything but for softies!

Legislation and responsibilities (mandatory since 25/05/2024)

• 1° the nature of the risks and the biomechanical and other risk factors referred to in article VIII.1-1, as well as the possible health consequences such as MSDs
• 2° the prevention measures taken and the appropriate working methods, as well as the way they are applied
• 3° the role of the hierarchical line in applying and monitoring the prevention measures;
• 4° health surveillance
• 5° the procedure for detecting and reporting MSDs or other health problems caused by musculoskeletal risks at work

Content: adaptable to the target group

• Risks and points of attention
• Definition of ergonomics
• Basic human anatomy and physiology
• Consequences of physical overload
  • Back problems
  • Neck complaints
• Specific techniques in practice
  • Movements within the confines of the bed
  • From lying to sitting
  • Putting on compression stockings
  • Lying transfers and static load
  • Care washing
  • Maternity care
  • Manoeuvring and driving
  • Additions for obese clients
• Correct use of aids
  • Patient lifts
  • Electrically adjustable bed
  • Adjustable shower chair
  • Slide sheets
  • Compression stocking slide
• Repetitive work
  • Stretching and muscle-strengthening exercises

NO WORDS, BUT ACTIONS!

• Theoretical introduction (30%) with plenty of practical exercises (70%)
• Every participant receives a certificate of attendance

WHAT DOES THE LAW SAY?

The employer ensures that workers and the Committee receive information and appropriate training on musculoskeletal risks at work. (Art. VIII.1-5, Royal Decree amending book VIII of the code on well-being at work concerning ergonomics at work and the prevention of MSDs)

The employer ensures that every worker receives sufficient and appropriate training on the well-being of workers in the performance of their work, specifically focused on their workstation or function. This training is adapted to the evolution of risks and the emergence of new risks and is, where necessary, repeated at regular intervals. (Code, book II, title 3)