Improvements or changes that come from employee ideas have better initial acceptance and continued compliance. They are also easy to promote. Looking back, the conviction and enthusiasm of our employees helped launch and expand the stretching program. Branching out Fifteen employees in the paint and spraying group initially tested the stretching regimen. New Holland allows 10 minutes for each team to limber up prior to the start of their shift each day.
Workers also perform a number of wrist exercises aimed at averting carpal tunnel.
Stretches are held for a minimum of 8-12 seconds. Based on the muscle group being addressed and the time available, three to five repetitions of each exercise are done. Each team has three leaders who alternate moderating the sessions. The overall aim of the program is to include every large muscle group from the neck to the hamstring. Exercises are tailored in each department for the specific job tasks.