Ergonomics: Saving your Back and Arms

Chapter 4.1.5

Overview

• Ergonomics is the study of efficient use of space to save our energy and prevent injury.

• The work of SSPs is both mental and physical.

• This presentation focuses on the physical aspects of work as an SSP, and when communicating with DB people.

Eyes, Ears, Arms & Backs

• Listening as a DB person is more physically straining than for a hearing person (listening to ordinary speech).

• For DB people listening auditorily causes strain for the focus it requires.

• For DB people, watching causes eye strain.

Eyes, Ears, Arms & Backs (cont.)

• Reaching up to feel signs causes more strain than being on the same level.

• For DB people it is important to be in a good position – to see, hear, feel.

Tactile Signing

Avoid Leaning

• When signing tactually get close. Notice the back strain for the people in the picture.

• At least the man on the left is supporting himself on the table.

Tactile Position

• Another power point describes positions for guiding. Some of the different positions relate to ergonomics.

• For communication there are key principles or points.

Tactile Positions (cont.)

• KEY POINTS– Take time to get comfortable

– Get close

– Be on the same level

– Have support for your arms and back

Demonstration

• In the next slide, instructor Jelica Nuccio demonstrate the conversational position for communicating tactually, while SSPs gather around to watch.

Sitting

• In the next two slides, the women are seated side by side to communicate tactually.

• They are close enough to each other that they can use the backs of the chairs for support.

• They can also rest their arms in their laps when they pause, and still feel some of the body language of each other as they chat.

Temporary Positioning

• In the next two slides someone approaches a seated friend(s) to ask a quick question. They squat down so they are both on the same level and the DB persons do not have to reach up, straining their arms.

• For longer conversations both/all will be seated or stand to save knees as well as arms and backs.

Pillows, Tables, Chairs, Knees

• For long meetings or week-long conferences (here at AADB) some people like pillows.

• For long conversations, tables and the backs of chairs are good supports as well.

Guiding

Shoulders & Elbows

• When you can, put your arms down so your shoulder and elbows can rest.

• In the next slide the SSP rests her arms while guiding the DB person.

Shoulders & Elbows (cont.)

• In the next picture, the SSP rests her left arm but keeps contact with the DB person using her right arm.

• Nevertheless, the SSP’s right arm is still hanging comfortably down from her shoulder. It is only her forearm that is raised.

Pause – Put Things Down

Time

Time & Pace

• Doing good SSP work requires good communication.

• It is often worth the time to pause and communicate clearly about the goals or agenda for the day, and to clarify as you go along.

Time & Pace (cont.)

• Clear communication may require a pause while you are walking.

• It takes time for the DB person to process the minimal information they get through feet and cane regarding the terrain.

• Don’t rush!

Find a Quiet Place

• Noise (auditory, visual, physical or emotional) is both distracting and stressful.

• Sit or stand away from traffic so you can focus.

• Don’t stand for long in the doorway or aisle blocking others.

Find a Quiet Place (cont.)

• Remind yourself that you are here for the DB person; let all thoughts and worries about your own chores or worries be on hold while you shift into the DEAF-BLIND WAY and focus on the work.

CLOTHES

In General

• Be sure your shoes and clothes support your work. – Baggy sleeves and some jewelry get in the way

– Your tops should be of plain, contrasting colors

• Clothes with generous pockets and a small day-pack or purse that you can wear over your shoulder or across your chest will help free up your hands.

Shoes

• Your shoes should be comfortable, with flat, non-slip soles for good balance. Sandals are often attractive and comfortable, however they do not protect your feet from being bumped or accidentally stepped on.

And…

Which side?

• Many hard-of-hearing people have better hearing in one ear than in the other. Check this out.

• The same is true for DB people listening tactually. Do they have a preference for one hand over the other?

• Being on the ‘better side’ will save strain for the DB person.

Left Side

• In the next slide the woman is reading the tactile map with her left hand. The SSP-guide verbally describes the map while gently guiding the blind woman’s hand to the mark.

Conclusion

• SSP work is physical as well as mental.

• Take time to be comfortable. Get on the same level to communicate (both standing, etc.)

• Take the opportunity to rest your arms and back.

• Don’t try to do too much in one outing. Rushing creates stress.

• Plan ahead so you will have the right clothes.