Knee Protection Matters: Safeguarding Workers on Site

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Across Australia and New Zealand, knee protection is crucial in physically demanding industries. According to SafeWork Australia, this is a major concern in those roles that require prolonged kneeling, squatting, crouching, and working in confined spaces or on uneven surfaces, which can significantly strain and injure the knees if appropriate protective measures are not taken. This stat might bring you to your knees, but according to a report, in terms of work-related injuries, the knee accounts for 13.2% of all musculoskeletal injuries in Australia.

Workers can face several risks

Repetitive Motion: Frequent kneeling, crawling, or bending can lead to repetitive motion injuries, such as bursitis or tendinitis, which cause inflammation and pain in the knee joints.
Impact Injuries: Workers may be exposed to falling objects or sudden impacts while working on construction sites, which can result in fractures or other serious knee injuries.
Uneven Surfaces: Working on uneven or unstable surfaces increases the likelihood of trips, slips, and falls, potentially leading to knee injuries.

Understanding the Risks

Without protection, workers are at risk of bursitis of the knee, this condition refers to the inflammation of the bursae located around the knee joint. Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that act as cushions between bones, but due to stress and repeated pressure, they can become inflamed. The good news is that bursitis of the knee can be effectively avoided with adequate knee protection.

The Importance of Knee Protection

Proper knee protection offers numerous benefits, including:

Injury Prevention: High-quality knee pads and other protective gear act as a barrier between the knees and hard surfaces, reducing the risk of impact injuries and repetitive strain.
Increased Comfort: Wearing knee pads provides cushioning and support, reducing discomfort associated with prolonged kneeling or crouching.
Improved Productivity: By safeguarding knee health, workers can perform their tasks with increased focus, efficiency, and reduced discomfort, thereby enhancing overall productivity.

Types of Knee Protection

Knee pads come in various designs, including strap-on, slip-on, and built-in options. At Pryme, we have knee pads with shock-absorbing materials and adjustable straps for a secure fit.

>> The ProFlex 350 Gel Foam Knee Pads are cushioned with NBR foam and EVA foam padding for all-around protection, support and stability. For long-lasting use on the toughest worksites, these pads are made with a 1680D ballistic nylon shell and an abrasion-resistant 420D nylon rubber cap.

>> The ProFlex 360 Hard Shell Hinged Knee Pads feature an ergonomic hinge design that is built to keep protection comfortably in place whether walking, crawling, or kneeling. The combination of a heavy-duty hard shell with a soft non-marring cap makes these pads versatile for protection on any indoor or outdoor surface—no matter how abrasive or delicate.

>> The ProFlex 367 Lightweight Gel Knee Pads feature a rounded cap for the highest degree of mobility, keeping knees protected when rocking and leaning. The lightweight gel and EVA foam padding provide comfort and support without the bulk of heavier knee pads.

MARTY KOEN - PRYME AUSTRALIA - Industrial Safety Products

“The 367 is the perfect blend of protection, comfort and price. Flexible outer cap for penetration protection with a deep hexagonal tread that provides non-slip properties. Surrounded by breathable mesh fabric and supported by a thick neoprene strap improves comfort over all other knee pads. The lightweight gel insert feels like you are kneeling on a cloud even after long periods and ensures the total weight of the knee pad is kept to a minimum. This knee pad truly is the bee’s knees!“

MARTIN KOEN, ACCOUNT MANAGER / PRYME

PRYME AUSTRALIA - KNEE PROTECTION - KNEELING PADS-min

Kneeling pads offer compression and support to reduce strain and inflammation. They are especially useful for workers with pre-existing knee conditions and we have the best on the market!

PRYME AUSTRALIA KNEELING PADS COLLECTION

>> The ProFlex 380 385 390 Kneeling Pad, provides cushioning comfort and knee protection for static kneeling situations. This kneeling mat is made with thick nitrile rubber (NBR) closed-cell foam which will keep its shape over time and won’t absorb liquids.

>> The ProFlex 381 Lightweight Standard Foam Kneeling Pad is a portable solution for comfort in a variety of static kneeling applications. Increase productivity and prevent common knee injuries with this pain-free kneeling pad.

Choosing the Right Knee Protection

Selecting suitable knee protection depends on the nature of the work. Consider the following factors:

Comfort and Mobility: Opt for knee protection that allows freedom of movement and is comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Durability: Look for knee pads or kneeling pads made from robust materials that can withstand the rigours of the work environment.
Size and Fit: Ensure the knee protection fits properly to maximize effectiveness. Consider adjustable straps or options available in different sizes to accommodate various leg dimensions.

By understanding the risks involved and implementing suitable knee protection measures, workers can significantly reduce the likelihood of knee injuries. Remember to prioritise comfort, mobility, and durability when selecting knee protection, and encourage regular exercise and proper techniques to maintain knee health. It is essential for employers and workers to work together to create a safe and healthy work environment that promotes the well-being of everyone involved.

At Pryme, we understand the importance of safety in high-risk industries, and we are committed to providing you with the knowledge to keep your workplace safe. Our TOOLBOX TALKS program offers a wide range of safety training sessions, delivered by our experienced safety professionals.