UU150 Final: Physical demands
Physical demands
Some opportunities require heavy lifting, lots of walking, or manual labour.
Consider whether you are able to do such tasks, and if you feel you are not
let your supervisor know. It is perfectly fine to explain that you are not up to
such tasks. Be honest about your capabilities, and do not take on anything
you cannot physically handle.
Ask
If you are unsure about procedures, policies, equipment, or a specific task,
ask someone. It’s better to ask then to have a problem.
Follow the rules
Rules exist for a reason – to keep everyone safe and make sure things run
smoothly. Follow the rules of your organization, and stick to the task you
have been assigned. Check in with your supervisor before changing tasks.
Be prudent!
Know your surroundings and travel route.
For example, if you are using public transit or walking, familiarize yourself
with your route beforehand. If you need help, or need to take an alternate
route, would you know where to go?
Avoid walking alone after dark, and pay attention to your surroundings.
Avoid using headphones, and any displaysof cash, electronic equipment,
expensive clothes, and accessories. If you have to return home late in the
evening, you might consider letting a friend or roommate know your
estimated time of arrival. If you are part of a group, and could possibly get
separated, organize a meeting point.
Take care of yourself
Volunteers are sometimes exposed to complex situations. For example,
volunteers at crisis hotlines, suicide prevention lines, or social service
organizations may be exposed to challenging information. If you find
yourself in these situations, expect to be emotionally impacted, so take
measures to take care of your emotional needs. Most campuses offer
counselling services for students, and they are there to help you deal with
any emotional responses to being on placement that are interfering with
daily routines. The training you receive should arm you with knowledge,
forewarn what could happen, and prepare you for what to expect. The
“embodied” experience of the work you do, however, is a whole other thing
and may take time to process.
Remember: All volunteers need to take steps to ensure their own safety
and the safety of others! Part of preparing yourself fully for your placement
or project is familiarizing yourself with the safety policies and procedures at
find more resources at oneclass.com
find more resources at oneclass.com
Document Summary
Some opportunities require heavy lifting, lots of walking, or manual labour. Consider whether you are able to do such tasks, and if you feel you are not let your supervisor know. It is perfectly fine to explain that you are not up to such tasks. Be honest about your capabilities, and do not take on anything you cannot physically handle. If you are unsure about procedures, policies, equipment, or a specific task, ask someone. It"s better to ask then to have a problem. Rules exist for a reason to keep everyone safe and make sure things run smoothly. Follow the rules of your organization, and stick to the task you have been assigned. Check in with your supervisor before changing tasks. For example, if you are using public transit or walking, familiarize yourself with your route beforehand. Avoid walking alone after dark, and pay attention to your surroundings.
