AboutC. Major Expertise I am able to answer questions regarding ergonomics in the office and factory environments. I am also able to answer questions regarding setting up ergonomic programs and analysis techniques.
Experience Approximately 12 years in the field, ranging from small projects to employment with large corporations in various industries. I have implemented programs, provided training, and performed evaluations and analyses.
Organizations Human Factors & Ergonomic Society, Institute of Industrial Engineers
Education/Credentials BS Industrial Engineering, MS Human Engineering through the Industrial Engineering Department and a Masters in Business Administration
Question Hi
At the age of 50,I have just begun training as a city transit bus driver.
I needed a career change and have limited educational,but I have several friends that like the work and have recommended I come over.
Although I try to eat light and exercise (I run on a treadmill several times a week),I am overweight and get stiff and sore,although I dont have arthritis or any other problems.
Most of the buses are new and comfortable to drive,but asking around there the biggest workplace health issues are low back problems and weight gain.
Any suggestions appreciated!
Answer Hello Barry,
Thank you for your question! First, Congratulations on your new career! This career requires the body to be in the same position for long periods of time while exposed to vibration. First step is to stand and stretch, move around whenever you can. This will keep the circulation flowing and reduce any muscle fatigue. This can be done at times convenient on your route and range from 1 minute to whatever time you have.
It is better if the seat has full adjustments and also your steering wheel and controls are adjustable. Set these in a position that allows you to sit comfortable. Make sure that everything is close enough to avoid reaching, leaning, twisting or bending. We must protect the spine! Get closer to the controls if that helps. Think of the proper posture that we are taught as kids. You can adjust throughout the day to change the position of the spine.
When you sit, please observe if your lumbar area is supported. The seat back should have a slight bulge in the lower area which lies against your lower back. It should be by your pants' belt loop in the back. If you don't have this built into your seat, you can get a lumbar pillow that you put in place, or roll up a towel and place against the seat back. You can purchase at an office supply store, medical supply store, even the big chain discount stores. Here are some examples of what they look like: http://www.painreliever.com/Lumbar+Support+Pillows.html
If you feel a lot of vibration when you drive, we may need to consider a different seat pillow that absorbs the shock. This vibration affects your spine also. Usually seats have built-in shock absorbers. Here is an example: http://www.impacto.ca/catalog.php?category=22
You are doing the right thing by PREVENTING the back pain! Make sure you remember to lift properly by bending your knees and using your leg muscles to lift. No twisting, let your toes follow your nose! Hydration is key also.
When you say "eat light" I assume you are eating a balanced and nutrition rich diet that includes healthy snacks. You are already ahead of the pack! As you know, calories burned (activity) must be less than calorie intake (nutrition) to control weight.
GET YOUR DOCTOR'S MEDICAL OPINION before you begin any of the following suggestions. The doctor will be able to give you exercises that you can do to strengthen your back and abdomen muscles. This will help keep your posture intact and support your back. For the stiffness, consider gently stretching your muscles in the morning and before you begin activity. No bouncing, only slow stretches. Also, you may want to try changing your treadmill settings to a slight incline and fast walking. This will reduce the impact on your joints from running.
