As a means of further lowering the potential for soft tissue injury, KINNECT has developed ‘SmartStretch’, an onsite pre-start warm up program for employees. This program incorporates stretches and exercises that are specific to the job demands and work related discomforts experienced onsite. The program is delivered in small groups of 10-20 people and is comprised of a small theory component but a large practical component to ensure practical behaviour change where appropriate. ‘Stretch Champions’ are selected and these individuals receive additional training so that they can conduct the stretching program daily thereby ensuring the programs durability.
To reinforce the benefits of both the Stretching Programs and Manual Handling Workshops, KINNECT have developed awareness material to be distributed to workers, further encouraging behavioural change.