We had a safety seminar at work yesterday. This new company I work for takes this very seriously, and it was the first time I’ve ever had a safety consultant come to my cube and check out the way I sit, how my computer is set up, and how I access files and paperwork on my desk.
I won’t go into all the stuff he talked about, but one thing he really stressed was about being in the moment, and always being aware of what safety should look like. Since 80% of people will develop back problems, he talked quite a bit about keeping your spine at it’s natural curve.
This all got me thinking of course—just how safety conscious am I away from my work desk. The average person uses the bathroom 6x per day, (yes, I googled that) what about our safety the 164,000 times or so we’ll be using the toilet during an average lifetime.
Are toilets ergonomically designed? Do you consciously think about sitting up in an ergonomically correct position while you’re dumping a load? It’s something to think about. What about those of us who like to do a crossword puzzle while we’re doing our duty. I think they should design a toilet that allows us to do the New York Times Sunday puzzle in an ergonomically correct position. I may have to patent a toilet with a crossword puzzle holder in the right spot to keep one from hunching over.
How about at the urinals. Men, are you standing straight and keeping your eyes focused straight ahead. ( I most certainly hope so) Don’t be looking at those posters or other signs that places might have on the walls, particularly if you have to raise your head to look up at them. Make sure your standing the right distance away so that you don’t have to move your hips forward and thus throw your back out of alignment.
Of course, the greatest advice on bathroom safety—don’t be doing what Senator Larry Craig did in the lavatory of MSP Airport.
Just another public service brought to you by The Far Wright. Remember, urinating and defecating can be just as dangerous as lifting a 50 lb box, and you don’t do that 160,000 times in your lifetime.
6 responses so far ↓
Palm boy // May 9, 2008 at 8:09 pm
Oh my…
Steve // May 9, 2008 at 8:15 pm
I spent a little time in eastern Turkey awhile back. Their public toilets were two foot-shaped blocks over a hole in the floor. I’m sure the blocks were ergonomically designed to ensure that you had the proper posture to do your business. There was also a coffee can with a rag in it so you could keep yourself properly hygienic afterward.
Bike Bubba // May 9, 2008 at 8:49 pm
Are you sure this post wasn’t intended for the KoolAid Report? Are you sure you’re not Learned Foot?
:^)
Speaking of which, if you want to really empty out your bowels quickly, I’ve found little better than the “squatter” toilets they use in various parts of Asia. Only downside is that the whole time you’re doing your business, you’re worried about losing your keys or wallet.
Night Writer // May 9, 2008 at 9:04 pm
Just think of the trouble Larry Craig could have avoided if only the MSP airport had those “squatty-potties” that show you exactly where to place your feet!
Night Writer // May 9, 2008 at 9:07 pm
We – and the good folks at NuttyBuddy – know you’re all about safety, KD!
gabrielle eden // May 10, 2008 at 12:09 am
Thank you, KD. I never even thought about all this! Ergonomically correct sitting and defecating!