Stretching

An example of our commitment to continuous improvement was the introduction of our stretching program. This program was designed to reduce the aches and pains associated with the stresses of every day activities and job tasks. The result was a significant decrease in the number and severity of strain injuries which helped Chemco achieve and maintains a WCB claim loss ratio well below the industry average.

Chemco participated in the Fitness for Work sub-committee helping to ensure workers are mentally and physically capable to perform their jobs safely.

 

Chemco worked with WorkSmart to develop and implement a Stretching Program on our worksite at Dow Chemcial. The Stretching Program was a success and was implemented on all of our worksites.

 

WorkSmart and Chemco developed a Train-the-Trainer course to educate selected individuals in the proper application of stretching techniques relevant to posture and work demands. These trainers would act as “champions of injury prevention” to the rest of the workforce. Many contractors throughout the Industry have used this Train-the-Trainer Program and Chemco assisted employers with organizing this training program. Chemco has provided information to other employers and some located in other provinces. As well, we have made presentations to employers and clients.

 

Chemco has worked with the Alberta Construction Safety Association (ACSA), Edmonton Regional Safety Committee (ERSC), WorkSmart and the Worker’s Compensation Board to develop a video that would be offered to industry. This video identifies the benefits of stretching and how and when to perform stretches. Today it is not uncommon to see construction workers performing stretching at the start of the shift or at micro-breaks that occur throughout the day. Some clients now include Stretching as a requirement in bid packages.