Warming Up ~ ACP Safety Meeting

“Construction is an athletic event” The importance of being warmed up prior to starting construction work (or any work involving heavy lifting) is just like getting ready for a sporting event. Stretching is a means to avoid the most common body sprain/strain injuries. Stretching before lifting is especially helpful to avoid back injuries. According to safety experts, over half of all workers’ compensation claims and costs were due to sprain/strains.

Guide for Discussion

Overexertion effects:
Backs; Trunks (Waist, Hips); Knees; Shoulders, Arms and Elbows

The hardest injury to live with is a back injury; once you are injured expect repeat injuries. One professional study indicates that once you do injure your back, you are five times more likely to suffer a re-injury.

Stretching: Brick masons working a major project (Intel Ronda Acres in Hillsboro, Or.) demonstrated that those who stretched before starting work didn’t have any back sprain/strain or lifting injuries.

Helpful Hints:

Go into stretching with a relaxed and open mind.

Stretch to the point where it is comfortable, not painful.

Do not strain when you stretch – straining keeps the muscle from relaxing. Concentrate on the muscle being stretched – think about the good feeling of a proper stretch.  As the feeling of the stretch changes to a mild stretch, stretch a little further, comfortable with no pain.


Don’t bounce when you stretch. That can cause injuries. Always stretch to the tight side first.


Breathe with a slow, normal rhythm. Do not hold your breath.

Demonstrate proper stretching exercises.

Remember: Construction is an athletic event. Stretching before you start work will make your job easier and helps prevent injuries on the job. Try it at home too. 

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