Working as a construction worker is much like being a superhero. Every day, you’re tasked with bearing heavy loads and using ultra cool equipment and tools. Riding in cranes and squatting on scaffolds put you so high in the sky that you almost feel like flying. But the same things that make construction job extraordinary could put you in a lot of stress. If you’re not too careful, you’d likely meet injuries along the way.

Fortunately, there are some safety measures you can follow to avoid common stress and injury in construction sites. Here they are:

1. Lift objects properly.

Back aches are every construction worker’s number one enemy. While it’s easy to get injured by carrying heavy loads, it’s not that hard to avoid this hazard altogether.

Remember to always bend your knees and to avoid twisting to the side when lifting. To maintain balance, put one foot slightly in front of the other.

2. Use ergonomically correct portable and high-powered tools.

Tools are supposed to make your life easier. Of course you know this but still you find yourself reaching out for the same hammer that puts a strain on your hand or those pliers that always slip from your grip.

You may not know it but by frequently using poorly designed tools, you could develop such conditions as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, white finger, and trigger finger.

Even powered tools can cause you serious problems with their high vibration and excessive noise. For this reason, employers must make sure that power tools they choose for workers not only have lower vibration but have a long trigger. They should also consider both left-handed and right-handed workers when selecting tools.

In the case of hand tools, employers or safety coordinators must choose those that need less force to use and do not strain the hand when you hold them tight. Hand tools must also be balanced and do not conduct heat or electricity.

3. Sit down when working at lower levels.

Avoid squatting or kneeling when you have to work at lower levels. By sitting on a stable stool, you avoid straining your knees and waist.

4. Keep your wrists in neutral.

Same goes with your arms. Otherwise, by the end of the shift, your body will be suffering from swelling, tingling, strains and pains. If things get worse, you could develop carpal tunnel syndrome.

5. Balance the weight of your tool belt.

Tool belts sure are small and handy but they have the ability to pull your body out of alignment. That is unless you keep its weight balanced. If you find that one side of your belt is heavier than the other, then make the necessary adjustments by transferring tools to the lighter side.

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