Manitoba Heavy Construction Association

14 SATURDAY, APRIL 9, 2022 A SUPPLEMENT TO THE WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Jacqueline Kent A pril is the month when we start eagerly planning our outdoor yard or home renovation projects. For many people yard work is a form of fun and enjoyment. Just like work in the heavy construction industry, this type of physical activity can pose a risk of injury. Come springtime, common yard work injuries take many forms. From slips or falls to strains, cuts and burns, nearly all spring yard work injuries are preventable. After being cooped up indoors after this long winter, we can't wait to plan for outdoor projects come spring. People are most prone to accidents when they rush or underestimate the thoroughness of their yard-work tasks. When it comes to yard work, there are few injuries as common as strained or pulled muscles. Consider all tasks that require bending, pulling and shifting body positions. Trevor Shwaluk, Safety Advisor for the Manitoba Heavy Construction Association, explains that strained and pulled muscles can occur in many yard work activities from digging new gardens to clearing and raking debris, to pulling weeds to pushing heavy lawnmowers. "Shoulders and the lower and upper back are the most susceptible to pulls and strains. Listen to your body as you work," advises Shwaluk. "Try not to rush to get yard work done or overexert yourself at the expense of your health." Stretching before heading out and right after you finish your work is a simple way to reduce the toll on muscles and joints. It is also important to take breaks and to not strain and exhaust yourself which will only increase the chance of physical injuries, like knee, wrist or back pain, in addition to mental strain and fatigue, as well. Further, repetitive motions such as digging, raking, trimming or pruning bushes or planting may cause tendon, nerve or joint pain. "Make sure your yard work activities are varied and are rotated every 15 minutes with a brief rest between," states Shwaluk. "This ensures that the same muscles are not used excessively." Regardless of the yard project planned, it is important to also wear the appropriate personal protective equipment. Many people assume protective gear isn't necessary for "small" outdoor tasks. Shwaluk suggests putting on the following gear: • Closed-toe shoes • Slip-resistant footwear • Long pants • Gloves • Hearing and eye protection It's important to educate yourself about yard work safety, or a day working outside could result in aching muscles, or a trip to the hospital emergency room. Perhaps the most important tip is don't try to do everything in one day. Take breaks when you need them, and don't overexert yourself. It's alright to leave some of the work for another day. PROTECT yourself from the hazards of yard work Aggregate Productions - Asphalt Paving Concrete Highway Construction - Major Exavations Site Development - Underground Utilities Installation Hwy. 16 South, Box 545 Russell, MB R0J 1W0 204-773-2586 Aggregate Productions - Asphalt Paving Concrete Highway Construction - Major Excavations Site Development - Underground Utilities Installation Hwy. 16 South, Box 545 Russell, MB R0J 1W0 204-773-2586

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