When it comes to preventing strains, sprains and pains in
commercial fisheries, Jerry Dzugan’s got your back… and more.
Dzugan is the director of the Alaska Marine Safety Education
Association, which has added ergonomics to its list of workshops, to help those
engaged in commercial fisheries reduce stress on their backs and spines, and
prevent other injuries common to those in the industry.
Ergonomics is the science of adapting workstations, tools,
equipment and work methods for more efficient, comfortable and error-free use
by people.
During COMFISH Alaska 2013 at Kodiak last week, Dzugan
talked with those participating in his workshop about adopting ergo principles
in their fisheries.
“Think about how to make work more comfortable,” he said.
“Think about how to be more efficient. Develop the attitude that you can make
better changes.”
Dzugan talked about the importance of specific work habits,
including good posture, to reduce stress, and ways to position equipment to
prevent stress and injury. He also discussed how non-slip tools and gloves can
help prevent injury, and stretches and exercises that improve flexibility and
agility.
Participants in the ergonomics classes, which are free to
commercial fishermen, are given a pocket guide reference that explains how
various forces on the body may result in back, spine, shoulder, elbow, wrist
and hand injuries. The guide also includes a set of illustrated stretches and
exercises to increase flexibility, which contribute to making people more
mentally alert and productive. Stretches, said Dzugan, should be part of a
daily routine.
For a complete list of ergonomic injury prevention and other
AMSEA workshops, log on to www.amsea.org. Information
on the workshops and how to register for them is also available at the website,
or call 1-907-747-3287.