Most Common Janitor Injuries

Your frontline custodial staff is at a higher risk for physical injuries simply due to the body movements and effort required in many of the daily tasks. They can suffer from one time injuries or issues brought on by performing the same task (often times incorrectly) over a period of time. 

Injuries can impact elbows, arms, shoulders, ankles, neck, knees, wrists, back, hands and even fingers. One key for the supervisor to take into account is that most injuries occur over time and can be reduced or even eliminated with a little forethought. Possible injuries include:

1. Using equipment that pulses or vibrates such as a grinding tool or pressure washer.

2. Working for a period of time in either extreme heat or cold while exposing body parts that should be better protected.

3. Standing in the same position (especially at an angle) for an extended period of time with little movement.

4. Bending or twisting in a way that the body is off balance or stressed.

5. Having to use extreme, extended force to perform a task such as pushing a deck brush or handling other equipment requiring body pressure.

6. Exposing a body part to continuous pressure on a hard surface that damage skin, bone and joints with the injury showing up later on.

These type injuries can have a serious impact on a front line custodians long term health and productivity. Investing in the correct tools and then training how to use them effectively and safely can be a great step towards reducing workers compensation claims. Please note the preceding is suggestive only since regulations will vary by government entity. It is highly recommended that reader consult with local SME (subject matter experts) on any safety related topic and use the preceding as a starting point. Go to www.osha.gov for more information or use a search engine for local and state regulations. 

Your comments and questions are always welcome. I hope to hear from you soon. Until then, keep it clean…

Mickey Crowe has been involved in the industry for over 35 years. He is a trainer, speaker and consultant. You can reach Mickey at 678.314.2171 or CTCG50@comcast.net.