Shovelling - Snow

As Canadians, we've been digging with that same snow shovel just as we do every year. But have we ever really given this chore much thought? Whether you're shovelling at work or home, there are some things you should consider.

Timing and attitude

Often the need for shovelling snow arises unexpectedly and interferes with what we had originally planned to do. Consequently, we face this unwanted chore unprepared and, more important in a hurry to get it over with as fast as possible. If we are not careful, we could experience cold exposure, fatigue, muscular strains and more serious injury, particularly to the lower back. Where possible, it is more practical to shovel early and often. Fresh dry snow is lighter and, therefore, more manageable than wet, heavily packed, or partly melted snow.

First of all, you should keep in mind that shovelling snow involves strenuous effort.

In general, if you load a shovel (weighing over 1 kg) with 5 kg of snow (just about the average) every 5 seconds, you will move a load of over 70 kg in one minute. Repeat for 15 minutes and you will have shovelled 1,000 kg of snow. Such effort is obviously not for everyone. This effort is hard on the heart and back. The use of a snow blower may be another option, but these machines require some effort as well and have other safety considerations.

As with any exercise, talk to your doctor. If you are physically fit, do some warm-ups before you start shovelling. Flexing and stretching exercises will loosen up the muscles and prepare them for the job ahead.

Next, check your clothing. Are you dressed appropriately? Wear several layers of warm lightweight clothing that is hinder-free and comfortable to move in. The inner layer should be breathable or thermal underwear that allows perspiration to escape from the skin surface. Make sure your head, (especially your ears), feet and hands are well covered. However, do not let your hat or scarf block your vision - you have to see what you are shovelling. Boots should be water-resistant and high-cut and should provide good traction. Gloves should be light and flexible and give you a good grip. If it is really cold, wear something over your mouth. Use a work/rest schedule if the temperatures are low or if it is windy.

For more information about working in the cold, you can visit the "Cold Environments" publications in OSH Answers - General Information, Health Effects and First Aid, and Working in the Cold.

What about that shovel? Is it a snow shovel? Any other kind of shovel will make the job much harder.

The important features of a shovel include:

• Weight: should be lightweight but sturdy - about 1.5 kg (a little over 3 lbs).
• Length: the handle should reach the user's chest to reduce the amount of forward bending.
• Shaft type: shafts with a bend (versus a straight style) may be easier on your lower back when used correctly.
• Handle type: typically has a "D" shaped handle. Be sure the handle type does not force the wrist into awkward positions.
• Blade size and shape: choose the style that best matches the exact task. For example, a large push-style shovel will move large amounts of snow but may result in lifting too much weight. A smaller blade shovel (25 to 35 cm or about 10-14 in) should be used for lifting and throwing snow. The smaller blade will decrease the weight that is lifted and decrease the risk of injury.

Work at a steady pace. Shovelling will make you sweat, and, if you stop, you could get a chill.

Push the snow rather than lift it. If you must throw it, take only as much snow as you can easily lift and turn your feet to the direction you're throwing - don't twist at the waist. Do not throw snow over your shoulder or to the side. Use a smaller shovel or lift partially filled loads to lighten the workload. 

Pace yourself. Shovelling snow is a strenuous activity comparable to weightlifting while walking on uneven, slippery, and unstable ground and wearing heavy-duty clothing. Take frequent breaks and drink some warm, non-alcoholic fluids. Take the time to warm up your arms, legs and back for the exercise. Lift with your legs, not your back. Listen to your body and take breaks as needed. 

For more information about shovelling in general, including what to consider when selecting a shovel, and the rate (how fast) you should shovel, please see the OSH Answers document Shovelling.