Foot pedals are often used to free the hands when operating machinery. However, foot pedals are undesirable for standing work since they set up heavy static loads in the one leg. During operation of the pedal, the Operator has to support his or her entire weight on the free leg, often for as long as an entire shift.
Foot pedals should only be considered at workstations where the employee performs the task while sitting. Where a foot pedal must be used for standing work, the Operator should be able to alternate between the left and right foot.
For this purpose, the pedal should be replaced with a bar that stretches horizontally across the floor in front of the machine in order to allow the Operator freedom to shift his or her weight from one leg to the other.
For more Ergonomically sound advice, visit our website www.aircheck-aia.co.za.
Comments
Post a Comment