How To Prevent Back Pain in the Kitchen
The festive period is one of the busiest times of the year in the catering industry. Commercial kitchens are under more strain than ever, and it is not only the equipment that suffers. Anyone working within a kitchen, catering environment, and front of house is at an especially high risk of strain and injury during this time.
Details on how to create a safe kitchen environment can be found on official sites such as the HSE. The Health and Safety Executive works specifically to prevent injury and ill health in the workplace and recognises that the Christmas period can be especially hazardous.
Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to help ensure everyone stays healthy and injury-free, regardless of their role, over the Christmas period and beyond.
Worktop Height
The height of worktops and surfaces is especially important when working over long or busy periods of time. A worktop that is too low or too high can result in unnecessary strain on the muscles and joints. Try to ensure that worktops are at a suitable standard height, and make adjustments where necessary and possible.
Correct Lifting
Ensure that everyone is familiar with the correct way to lift. Bending the knees and lifting without twisting the spine is especially important. Everyone should also be familiar with safe weights to lift and what should be done with additional tools or help. Spinal injuries can be serious, and many people are more likely to take a risk when they feel they need to rush during a busy period. If in doubt, everyone should feel confident to seek advice and ask for help.
Proper Storage
Items and ingredients that are used regularly should be stored within easy reach. Commercial refrigeration and storage solutions are specially designed to be both safe and efficient. Proper storage minimises the risk of physically straining to reach items, and some popular choices come from https://www.fridgefreezerdirect.co.uk/ and other experienced providers.
Micro Breaks
Taking regular, high-quality breaks during busy periods is especially important to minimise the risk of strain and injury. With good staffing and organisation, everyone can take breaks and return more relaxed and productive as a result.
By observing some of the tips given above, you can ensure that everyone stays safe and healthy over the festive period.
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