Operators don’t always use assistance tools provided to them because of a lot of reasons that we explained in our last article. However it is easy to set up actions in order to raise operators’ awareness of use of assistance tools.
It is essential that operators are aware of the importance of musculoskeletal disorders. That is why the INRS, which is the reference body for occupational risk prevention in France, offers documentation and numerous awareness campaign posters towards risks of musculoskeletal disorders. Providing documentation to operators and displaying prevention messages, in the workshop for example, will warn operators of daily-incurred risks.
Once they are aware of risks in their activity, operators must have equipment adapted to their needs. It must be convenient, light and user-friendly. In order to foster as much as possible the well-being and security of operators, it could be interesting to have them participate in the choice of the equipment to be used. If they are involved in this decision and in the choice of equipment (rather than if it were imposed by board members), they would be less resistant to their use. Ergonomics and security have to be in the forefront.
Once equipment has been chosen, tested and bought, managers must ensure the training of operators. This training is an opportunity to increase operators’ awareness once more and to make sure that they will use it correctly.
For difficult maneuvers with valves, Modec thought, designed and produced a tool that facilitates daily job of operators: portable valve actuators. They allow reducing risk of musculoskeletal disorders associated to these difficult operations. Light, portable and easy to use, the operator doesn’t have to force anymore in order to actuate valves: portable valve actuator handles everything! Risks of musculoskeletal disorders are eliminated because the operator doesn’t have to do long and repetitive movements.
To conclude, investing in valve maneuvers assistance tools is necessary but not sufficient in order to eliminate risks of occupational diseases or accidents. Employees’ “natural” resistance to change has to be taken into account and above all, it is important to never forget the different steps that are essential to succeed in the process: raising awareness of the incurred risks without tool, participation in the choice of the tool and then training to the use.
Portable valve actuators Modec answer perfectly to these safety and ergonomics requirements for the operators. Moreover, discover the other advantages of such a tool in our article
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