Ergonomics & Employees Body position matters and proper use of ergonomics can help reduce the incidence and cost of Workers comp claims and help keep insurance premiums at a minimum. Teach employees to use proper ergonomics when at the job with these simple steps: • Keep Arms and wrists in neutral positions and take regular breaks to change position. Workers that spend a lot of time in the same position risk developing carpal tunnel syndrome. Make a point of moving, stretching and changing position. • Use proper hand and power tools. From vibrating drills to driving nails, any tool that eventually leads to a numb feeling has the potential to cause injuries due to overuse. Try to find lighter tools that require less force and put less stress on your joints. Before buying new tools test each grip to be sure it is comfortable and fits your hand. If you choose a grip that is too small for your hand you can develop a painful “pinch grip”. • Wear tool belt properly. If one side of the tool belt is ten pounds heavier than the other side, it can pull your body out of alignment. This means the muscles on one side are forced to work harder and can lead to back strain or injury. Distribute tools and materials in equal weights on each side and remove the belt during breaks to give your back a rest. • Sit down. When working at lower level, take the opportunity to sit down on a stool rather than bending at the waist; it puts less strain on ligaments and is preferable to squatting which strains knees and often proves unstable.