NIOSH Alert: Request for Assistance in Preventing Knee Injuries and Disorders in Carpet Layers

摘要

NIOSH requests assistance in preventing knee injuries and disorders among carpet layers. These workers frequently report bursitis of the knee, and a variety of knee symptoms that are caused by frequent kneeling on hard surfaces and use of the knee kicker for stretching wall-to-wall carpet. Although kneeling cannot be eliminated, carpet layers should wear protective knee pads whenever kneeling on hard surfaces. In addition, they should use the power stretcher -- a safe alternative to the knee kicker that does not use the knee. Employers should ensure that each carpet layer is trained in the proficient use of the power stretcher and that a sufficient number of these devices are available to each crew of carpet installers.