HSE campaigns for “Better Backs” in waste industry

This is the message from the Health and Safety Executive, which has mounted a “better backs” campaign to reduce the number of back-related injuries in the workplace.

” The study found plastic wheeled bins are preferable to metal ones as their lightness makes them easier to manoeuvre.“
– Dr Andrew Pinder, HSE
Back injuries accounted for 23% of all injuries sustained in the waste and recycling industry in 2002/03. A study from Backcare, found that the average small firm was said to be losing 22 days of work a year from back strain.

The HSE campaign is also promoting the use of lifting and handling aids to help reduce the incidence of injuries of this nature.

Dr Andrew Pinder, who has led research on risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders for the HSE, said: “Musculoskeletal disorders are a real problem in refuse collection. The study found plastic wheeled bins are preferable to metal ones as their lightness makes them easier to manoeuvre.”

Sharps
Dr Pinder added that wheeled bins are also better than refuse sacks as far as staff injuries are concerned – and they also guard against injuries from sharps. “Refuse sacks don't protect operators from injuries from sharp objects in the waste and manually handling them is rife with risks for musculoskeletal disorders,” he said.

Commenting on the report's findings, Telford-based bin manufacturer Plastic Omnium, which supplies both metal and plastic bins, said plastic bins are “definitely superior”. As well as health and safety benefits, managing director Ian Collins said plastic bins are “quieter and more hygienic”.

Mr Collins said: “We recognized long ago that the ease with which plastic bins can be handled will result in fewer neck and back injuries and long-term sickness compared with metal bins, but it's reassuring that it's now been scientifically proven by a respected, independent authority.”

Advice
The HSE has set up a website specifically to provide advice on how to cut down back injuries, at www.betterbacks.hse.gov.uk.

Information on designing conveyor belt systems to prevent the risk of musculoskeletal injury has also been published. The guidance advises on how to avoid the need for seated or standing operators to stoop excessively, twist or over-reach while working. Written for all industries, the HSE said it has particular relevance for sorting activities at materials recycling facilities.