ERGONOMICS :: TRAIN-THE-TRAINER PROGRAM :: ERGONOMICS CONTROLS Ergonomics Controls.
Ergonomics: Saving your Back and Arms Chapter 4.1.5.
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Transcript of Ergonomics: Saving your Back and Arms Chapter 4.1.5.
Overview
• Ergonomics is the study of efficient use of space to save our energy and prevent injury.
• The work of SSPs is both mental and physical.
• This presentation focuses on the physical aspects of work as an SSP, and when communicating with DB people.
Eyes, Ears, Arms & Backs
• Listening as a DB person is more physically straining than for a hearing person (listening to ordinary speech).
• For DB people listening auditorily causes strain for the focus it requires.
• For DB people, watching causes eye strain.
Eyes, Ears, Arms & Backs (cont.)
• Reaching up to feel signs causes more strain than being on the same level.
• For DB people it is important to be in a good position – to see, hear, feel.
Avoid Leaning
• When signing tactually get close. Notice the back strain for the people in the picture.
• At least the man on the left is supporting himself on the table.
Tactile Position
• Another power point describes positions for guiding. Some of the different positions relate to ergonomics.
• For communication there are key principles or points.
Tactile Positions (cont.)
• KEY POINTS– Take time to get comfortable
– Get close
– Be on the same level
– Have support for your arms and back
Demonstration
• In the next slide, instructor Jelica Nuccio demonstrate the conversational position for communicating tactually, while SSPs gather around to watch.
Sitting
• In the next two slides, the women are seated side by side to communicate tactually.
• They are close enough to each other that they can use the backs of the chairs for support.
• They can also rest their arms in their laps when they pause, and still feel some of the body language of each other as they chat.
Temporary Positioning
• In the next two slides someone approaches a seated friend(s) to ask a quick question. They squat down so they are both on the same level and the DB persons do not have to reach up, straining their arms.
• For longer conversations both/all will be seated or stand to save knees as well as arms and backs.
Pillows, Tables, Chairs, Knees
• For long meetings or week-long conferences (here at AADB) some people like pillows.
• For long conversations, tables and the backs of chairs are good supports as well.
Shoulders & Elbows
• When you can, put your arms down so your shoulder and elbows can rest.
• In the next slide the SSP rests her arms while guiding the DB person.
Shoulders & Elbows (cont.)
• In the next picture, the SSP rests her left arm but keeps contact with the DB person using her right arm.
• Nevertheless, the SSP’s right arm is still hanging comfortably down from her shoulder. It is only her forearm that is raised.
Time & Pace
• Doing good SSP work requires good communication.
• It is often worth the time to pause and communicate clearly about the goals or agenda for the day, and to clarify as you go along.
Time & Pace (cont.)
• Clear communication may require a pause while you are walking.
• It takes time for the DB person to process the minimal information they get through feet and cane regarding the terrain.
• Don’t rush!
Find a Quiet Place
• Noise (auditory, visual, physical or emotional) is both distracting and stressful.
• Sit or stand away from traffic so you can focus.
• Don’t stand for long in the doorway or aisle blocking others.
Find a Quiet Place (cont.)
• Remind yourself that you are here for the DB person; let all thoughts and worries about your own chores or worries be on hold while you shift into the DEAF-BLIND WAY and focus on the work.
In General
• Be sure your shoes and clothes support your work. – Baggy sleeves and some jewelry get in the way
– Your tops should be of plain, contrasting colors
• Clothes with generous pockets and a small day-pack or purse that you can wear over your shoulder or across your chest will help free up your hands.
Shoes
• Your shoes should be comfortable, with flat, non-slip soles for good balance. Sandals are often attractive and comfortable, however they do not protect your feet from being bumped or accidentally stepped on.
Which side?
• Many hard-of-hearing people have better hearing in one ear than in the other. Check this out.
• The same is true for DB people listening tactually. Do they have a preference for one hand over the other?
• Being on the ‘better side’ will save strain for the DB person.
Left Side
• In the next slide the woman is reading the tactile map with her left hand. The SSP-guide verbally describes the map while gently guiding the blind woman’s hand to the mark.
Conclusion
• SSP work is physical as well as mental.
• Take time to be comfortable. Get on the same level to communicate (both standing, etc.)
• Take the opportunity to rest your arms and back.
• Don’t try to do too much in one outing. Rushing creates stress.
• Plan ahead so you will have the right clothes.