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Moving furniture can be a strenuous and physically demanding task. It requires lifting, carrying, and manoeuvring heavy objects, making it all too easy for accidents to occur. Whether you are moving furniture within your home or relocating to a new residence, it is crucial to prioritise safety and take preventive measures. This guest post will highlight the common injuries that happen when furniture moves and provide practical tips on how to avoid them.
1. Sprains and Strains:
Lifting heavy furniture incorrectly is one of the leading causes of sprains and strains. Therefore, if you are planning furniture moving in Auckland, for instance, you must hire professional movers in your area. It is the best solution because when individuals don't use proper lifting techniques or attempt to lift more than they can handle, they put tremendous strain on their muscles and tendons.
To prevent sprains and strains:
a) Warm up before starting the moving process – Stretching exercises will limber up your muscles.
b) Lift with your legs – Instead of using your back, use the strength in your leg muscles to lift heavy items.
c) Divide the weight - Whenever possible, remove drawers or disassemble larger pieces of furniture into smaller components to distribute the weight evenly.
d) Use dollies or sliders – Utilising equipment like dollies or sliders can help reduce strain by allowing you to slide heavy objects rather than lifting them.
2. Back Injuries:
Back injuries are one of the most common traumas resulting from improper furniture shifting techniques during house moves. Lifting an object without proper support or enough manpower significantly increases the risk of back strain, herniated discs, or even more severe spinal injuries.
To avoid back injuries:
a) Use proper lifting form – Be sure to bend at your knees while keeping your back straight when picking up furniture items.
b) Seek assistance - Enlist the help of friends or family members when dealing with heavy pieces that require support beyond what you can manage alone.
c) Use tools designed for lifting – Invest in tools such as back braces or lifting straps. These supportive aids can help reduce strain on your back muscles while moving heavy loads.
3. Cuts and Bruises:
During furniture moving Auckland, it is quite common to encounter sharp edges, splinters, or rough surfaces that can lead to cuts and bruises. These injuries may seem minor; however, they can cause discomfort and potential infections if not properly treated.
To minimise the risk of cuts and bruises:
a) Wear appropriate protective gear – Use gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges or protruding nails.
b) Inspect the furniture beforehand – Before handling any items, check for loose screws, splintered wood, or other potential hazards.
c) Wrap furniture in blankets or padding – Create a protective layer around furniture pieces by using blankets or padding. This safeguard prevents bumps and scrapes during the move.
4. Trips and Falls:
Tripping over objects while manoeuvring through narrow hallways or doorways is a prevalent risk when furniture is moving. It can result in serious injuries ranging from sprained ankles to broken bones.
To prevent trips and falls:
a) Clear pathways - Remove any obstacles ahead of time to create clear paths for moving large pieces.
b) Use proper lighting - Ensure that all areas are well-lit to enhance visibility during the move.
c) Take your time - Avoid rushing when navigating around corners or tight spaces with large pieces of furniture.
5. Head and Foot Injuries:
Interacting with overhead objects like chandeliers during the move can lead to head injuries if caution is not exercised. Additionally, toes often suffer from being accidentally crushed by heavy items.
To protect against head and foot injuries:
a) Protect your head – Always be mindful of low-hanging fixtures or sharp objects above you when carrying tall furniture pieces.
b) Wear sturdy footwear – Opt for closed-toe shoes with good traction to prevent foot injuries caused by heavy furniture dropping onto your toes.
Conclusion:
Moving furniture can be a hazardous task if not approached with caution. By recognising common injuries and implementing preventive measures, you can minimise the risk of accidents during the move. Remember, properly executing lifting techniques, utilising equipment like dollies or sliders, wearing protective gear, and maintaining clear pathways are all crucial steps in ensuring safety while moving furniture. Prioritising your well-being now will save you from potential injuries and long-term health issues later on.
