Ergonomics for shop assistants

Don't work your neck, back and wrists into the ground!

WHAT DOES THIS ERGONOMICS FOR SHOP ASSISTANTS TRAINING COVER?

The physical risks for shop assistants are still underestimated or minimised in many workplaces.

Yet the combination of repetitive movements such as checkout work and handling loads by lifting, carrying and pulling causes various discomforts. Think of stiff shoulders, neck pain or tingling in the arm and wrist.

For the employee, a good working posture is essential in preventing complaints.

It is the employer's responsibility to adapt the work to the person in terms of workstations, choice of work equipment and working method.

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 poor posture and overload
  • Back problems, shoulder and neck complaints (tablet neck)
  • Marked thighs
  • Wrist and arm
    • RSI (Repetitive strain injury)
    • Tendinopathy of the upper limbs (tendinitis)
• Prolonged sitting or standing (sedentary behaviour) versus movement
• Repetitive movements
• Tools and techniques in practice
  • Working posture
  • Lifting and carrying technique
  • Pulling and pushing technique
  • Repetitive work and “pause time”
  • Stretching and muscle-strengthening exercises
  • Chair massage

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)