Abstract

Garbage collectors sometimes benefit from training programs targeting the prevention of handling-related back pain. However, because they seek efficiency and a regular work pace, they rarely use the methods taught, mainly because they do not correspond to the work reality. The authors used video material to analyze garbage collectors’ handling strategies, to evaluate to what extent they used efficient means and principles to carry out their tasks, and to check work contexts that do or do not promote the use of these principles. They identified a dominant handling profile; however, they also noted a significant variability in how things are done based on different factors (weight of garbage, condition of the road, position of the truck, etc). The authors believe that it would be preferable to base garbage collector training on the analysis of handling situations in order to find a solution that is suitable to these workers and that would protect them from the risks, while meeting production objectives. The handling strategies studied are described in the report, mainly by pictures taken from the videos.