Vacuuming is one of the most frequent and essential tasks for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in facilities. It also creates a healthier environment by removing dust, allergens, and debris. However, improper vacuuming techniques and poor ergonomics can lead to discomfort, fatigue, and even injuries to your back, shoulders, arms, and wrists over time. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, musculoskeletal disorders accounted for 31% of all worker injuries and illnesses in 2023, with many cases stemming from repetitive tasks like vacuuming.
To mitigate these risks, implement ergonomic strategies that will elevate the efficiency of your vacuuming practices and sustain the custodial staff’s long-term health and productivity. Following the eight practices below will enhance vacuuming ergonomics and ensure a safer and more productive cleaning experience.
1. Choose the right equipment
Cleaning professionals rely on a variety of vacuum equipment to clean different spaces and surfaces. Selecting a vacuum that also suits the user’s needs can improve comfort and reduce physical stress during cleaning.
Heavy vacuums can strain your shoulders, arms, and wrists. Instead, opt for lightweight equipment, such as an upright model that’s easy to maneuver and steer with minimal effort, or a
canister vacuum which includes a lighter cleaning wand to reduce arm fatigue.
A 2022 study published in Applied Ergonomics found that vacuums with adjustable handles and lightweight construction significantly reduce strain on the back and shoulders compared
to traditional models. Maneuverable models minimize bending and lifting, and extendable hoses improve flexibility. Cordless options eliminate trip hazards and the strain of cord management.
For backpack vacuums, a comfortable harness will ensure the weight is evenly distributed across the back, shoulders, and hips, minimizing lower back strain. Choosing rider sweepers/vacuums
to clean larger, open areas reduces stress on the body.
2. Adjust the vacuum to fit you
Adjust the vacuum’s handle to a height that keeps your body aligned properly. Ensure the handle is at a height that keeps your arms slightly bent and shoulders relaxed.
Keeping your elbows slightly bent allows for better control and less strain. This position helps prevent hunching or overextension, reducing neck, back, and limb strain.
3. Maintain proper posture
According to the Liberty Mutual 2024 Workplace Safety Index, injuries from exertions or bodily reactions (awkward postures like bending and twisting as well as climbing, crawling, kneeling,
reaching, sitting, standing, running, and walking) cost employers US$3.68 billion annually. Repetitive motions involving microtasks cost $1.54 billion.
Good posture is key to avoiding back and neck pain. Stand tall with feet shoulder-width apart, keeping your back straight. Avoid twisting and overreaching while vacuuming and instead move
your feet.
Engage core muscles to support your spine and use your legs to move the vacuum forward and backward to reduce lower back strain. Also, remember to switch hands periodically to avoid
overworking one side of your body.
4. Take periodic breaks
Vacuuming, especially in large areas, can be physically demanding. Pause periodically to stand up straight and stretch your back, neck, and arms. This prevents stiffness and allows muscles
to relax, reducing the risk of fatigue or repetitive strain injuries.
5. Consider the floor surface
The type of flooring can impact the level of cleaning effort required. On carpeted surfaces, use the appropriate vacuum setting for optimal suction without having to push or pull too hard.
For hard floors, make sure the vacuum has adjustable settings to accommodate smooth surfaces. The proper setting minimizes resistance and makes the job easier on your joints.
6. Control the cord
If you’re using a vacuum with a cord, be mindful of tripping over the cord or pulling it improperly, resulting in shoulder and back strain. Keep cords organized and untangled.
If possible, opt for cordless or retractable-cord models to enhance mobility, reduce effort, and eliminate tripping hazards.
7. Leverage advanced features
Modern vacuums are equipped with ergonomic and time-saving features such as heightened suction efficiency to reduce the number of passes needed. Other features include quiet operating levels to minimize auditory strain during extended use, and flexible hose attachments to avoid overreaching.
8. Train staff on proper techniques
Take proactive steps to prevent common injuries from strains, lifting, and awkward postures by establishing an ergonomics plan. For commercial cleaning teams, a well-designed ergonomic
program can significantly reduce injuries and improve job satisfaction.
Research from the University of South Florida shows that using ergonomic equipment can reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders by up to 60% and increase productivity by 25%. These benefits highlight the significant return on investment that ergonomic practices can provide. Organizations can prioritize ergonomics in their cleaning protocols by providing resources and
education to their cleaning teams.
9. Maintain vacuums regularly
Vacuums perform poorly when they have hair and carpet fibers wrapped around their brushes. Full bags, dirty filters, and clogs in any of the air channel points will reduce suction and potentially
cause the user to work longer for satisfactory results.
Set up a regular schedule to clean vacuums, empty their bags, and check for clogs. The better you maintain your vacuums the more efficiently they will work, and the less time they will be in
use.
Don’t overlook the long-term benefits of ergonomics
Vacuuming poses significant ergonomic challenges, which can lead to chronic, lifelong pain. Adopting ergonomic vacuuming practices can foster a safe working environment and support the health and well-being of the cleaning staff. Fewer injuries will result in reduced workers’ compensation claims and lower absenteeism.
By equipping cleaning professionals with the knowledge and skills to perform their tasks safely and efficiently—and by prioritizing ergonomic practices—you can create a safer, healthier, and more productive workplace.
