Equipment Tips for Reducing Back Strain

Editor’s note: Andrew Greess, a pest control equipment expert and president of equipment website Qspray.com, submitted this feature on the importance of putting a maintenance plan in place.

Back strain is a common issue for workers in route-based businesses like pest control. The physical demands of these jobs, including repetitive lifting, bending, and prolonged sitting, can lead to chronic pain and injuries. Preventing back strain requires a combination of proper ergonomics, physical conditioning, and mindful practices.

Here are some equipment tips to prevent back issues:

Eliminate unnecessary stretching and straining. Provide easy access to commonly used equipment.  Put equipment that is used every day in the easiest to reach areas.  Seldom used equipment can be buried in less-accessible locations.  For example, if the technician uses a backpack sprayer every day, put it at the tailgate so it doesn’t need to be lifted over the side of the vehicle.  This will put a lot less stress on the technician’s back.

Avoid twisting movements. When loading and unloading items, workers should avoid twisting movements, which can strain the back. Instead, they should pivot their whole body, keeping the load close to the body and using their legs to lift.

Provide equipment appropriate to the employee. For example, it may be wise to provide an older employee with a smaller backpack or an electric hose reel on the power sprayer.

Don’t overfill manual sprayers. This is simple but wise.  If it is the last stop of the day, you don’t need to fill up the sprayer all the way.  Why lift more than you need to lift?

Pay attention to vehicle adjustments. Vehicle seats should be adjustable to support the lower back, with a slight recline to reduce pressure on the spine. Workers should adjust the seat to ensure their feet reach the pedals without fully extending their legs. Steering wheel height and distance should allow for a relaxed arm position, with elbows slightly bent.

KEEP EMPLOYEES SAFE. The biggest challenge most pest control companies face these days is finding good employees.  One of the best ways to find good employees is not to lose the good ones you already have.  A few steps to reduce back strain can support this effort.

The author is a pest control equipment expert and president of equipment website Qspray.com.  Contact him at Andrew@Qspray.com.