Discuss the principles of body mechanics with suitable examples.
How to lay out the answer. Follow the frame, then write it in your own words.
1 · Open in two lines. Body mechanics is the correct, efficient use of the body during work so that effort and strain are least. It rests on five principles.
2 · Good posture. Body parts in line; standing with feet apart and weight on both feet; sitting with the back supported. Example: sit on a stool to clean greens.
3 · Gravity and balance. Keep the centre of gravity low and over a wide base; hold loads close. Example: two half-full buckets instead of one full one.
4 · Proper use of muscles. Use the strong leg and thigh muscles and both hands; push or pull rather than lift. Example: lifting a gas cylinder.
5 · Rhythm and momentum.
Rhythmic movement: smooth, steady motions tire less, as in rolling chapatis.
Momentum: let a started movement carry on, as in sliding a heavy pot.
6 · Draw safe lifting. [Diagram: two stick figures: wrong (back bent, legs straight) and right (knees bent, back straight, load held close)]
7 · Nutrition link. Training hostel and hospital cooks in safe lifting and elbow-height work prevents back injury.
8 · Close in one line. Working with the body, not against it, saves energy and protects health for a lifetime of housework.
Scoring tip: Name all five principles as headings and give each a household example. The wrong-versus-right lifting sketch is quick and scores well.
