February 1, 2021 by Mulberry Maids
Now that winter is in full swing, it’s a great time to talk about shoveling snow. Even if you don’t have a huge driveway, chances are you will still need to be out at least a few times this winter to clear it out, and do some additional snow removal work on your sidewalk. Â
The most dependable cleaners in Fort Collins are here to help explain about ways to safely and ergonomically shovel snow . Read on!Â
How does shoveling relate to house cleaning?
Shoveling and house cleaning relate to each other in a few ways. The physical aspect of both activities make ergonomics very important for health and safety. Additionally, getting motivated to tackle these chores is quite similar. Lastly, while it can be hard to get yourself up to take care of cleaning or shoveling, they can both be very rewarding. You can see a finished product in just a few minutes – so it is a very gratifying experience!
What to look for in a shovel
There are many types of shovels to choose from, varying by shaft length, handle size, and scoop shape. The proper ergonomic shovel for each person will depend on the type and size of the shovel, and should be tested out in the store to make sure it is comfortable.Â
In addition to the shape and size of the shovel, weight of the shovel should be taken into consideration. The heavier the shovel, the more weight you will be continuously moving around. The lighter the shovel, the easier it will be to move around, but it will not be able to handle as much snow load. Likewise a heavier shovel will make things harder, but it will be sturdier and able to handle heavier snow loads.Â
Snow shovels may also have a bend in the shaft, which can help to reduce forward bend for the shoveler, taking pressure off the lower back. Some shovels are made more for pushing snow vs. lifting snow. Depending on what, where, and the type of snow shoveling being done, this can be an important factor in shovel selection.Â
How quickly should I shovel?
This is dependent on many factors – if you are not very physically active, you should shovel at a slow pace. Even if you are very fit, you need to be careful to not shovel too fast. High weights and a twisting body are a recipe for injury!
It is recommended to shovel at a rate of 18-21 scoops per minute, but slowing down to 15 scoops per minute is great to fight fatigue when continuously shoveling. Depending on the type of driveway and amount of snow that you are shoveling, you may be able push the snow to the edge, rather than picking it up. Â
How much weight should I shovel?
This will not only depend on the type of shovel that is being used, but the rate of shoveling. The higher rate you are doing, the less weight should be lifted. For a consistent rate of 15 scoops per minute, you should keep the maximum load to 15 pounds. This weight is dependent on the size of the shovel, and the density of the snow that is being shoveled.Â
Are there safety tips to be aware of?
Shoveling snow can be a great form of exercise, but doing it safely is the most important thing.Â
Always warm up
Start out shoveling very slowly to gradually warm up your body. Especially when it is really cold outside, it is important to warm up to prevent any injuries or unnecessary strain to your body.
Be conscious of leg placement
Make sure that your legs are in a wide and stable stance. Put your weight on your forward leg when picking up the initial load of snow, then transfer it back to your rear leg. Keep the snow load close to your body, and turn your feet in the direction that you will throw the snow. You want to turn your whole body carefully, and not just twist under the load of the snow to prevent injury.
Watch your back!
As with so many activities, always lift anything with your legs and not your back! Be very careful and conscious of this, as it is so easy to hurt your back.
Dependable cleaners in Fort Collins for all types of cleaning!
Mulberry Maids is committed to our customers’ complete satisfaction! We only work with professional trained cleaners, who consistently receive great feedback from our clients. Whether it is a standard cleaning or you are moving out of your home, we always make sure your home is healthy, clean, and fresh.Â
Book a cleaning using our modern and easy to use booking page, so you can go play at the new Poudre River Whitewater Park once the weather warms up, instead of cleaning your home!
Give us a call today at (970) 460-4298 – we are here to help!