NIOSH Mining Safety Idea

Ideas to Reduce Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders


Scaling Roof


Old Way:The typical scaling bar is made of solid metal and is quite heavy. This, along with the fact that scaling bars are long, results in a considerable strain on the lower back.
New Way:A lightweight, counterbalanced scaling bar has been developed. The light weight of this bar (made primarily of fiberglass) results in reduced loads on the lower back. In addition, most of the scaling bar's weight is in the end closest to the worker, further reducing the load on the lower back.

Scaling roof  Scaling roof with a lighter bar
Old Way New Way
Page last updated: 9/17/2008
Page last reviewed: 5/28/2008
Content Source: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Mining Division