ESOHMS ERGONOMICS TRAINING

Introduction The following information is part of your Environmental, Safety and Occupational Health Management System (ESOHMS). Remember that YOU are the key to maintaining a safe and healthy work environment. Go to https://dla.dod.afpims.mil/HQ/Acquisition/StrategicMaterials/iamthekey.aspx for more information on the ESOHMS and DLA/ SM environmental, safety and occupational health policies. A copy of DLA/SM “Ergonomic Plan” can be found in IGD 1005 Section 3.1 on the https://dla.dod.afpims.mil/HQ/Acquisition/StrategicMaterials/iamthekey.aspx website.

Purpose of This Training Familiarize you with DNSC’s ergonomic plan; Understand what ergonomics is; Potential risk of work-related Muscloskeletal Disorder (WMSD); The possible causes and symptoms; Means of prevention; The sources of treatment; and Answer your questions, and provide assurance that your work environment is SAFE.

What Is Ergonomics? The word “Ergonomics” comes from two Greek words “ergon”, meaning work, and “nomos” meaning laws. Ergonomics is the study of the relationship between a worker and the design and use of all things that affect a person’s working conditions: equipment, machinery, the layout and job duties.

Goals of DLA/SM Ergonomic Program Prevent injuries and illness by eliminating or reducing worker exposure to WMSD risk factors. Reduce the potential for fatigue, error, and unsafe actions by adapting the job and workplace to be within the worker’s capabilities and physical limits. Increase the overall productivity of the workforce. Reduce workforce compensation claims and associated costs. Identify early and prevent WMSDs to preserve and protect DLA/SM workforce while decreasing related costs.

Cost of WMSDs Direct Costs: Indirect Costs: Medical treatment Rehabilitation Worker’s compensation Indirect Costs: Lost work time Decreased productivity Decreased work quality Retraining costs Diminished morale

Health Effects of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders Repeated biomechanical (i.e., the mechanics of muscular activity) stress can cause or aggravate WMSDs Over time, repeated micro-injuries can evolve into a painful, debilitating condition involving: Muscles Tendons Tendon sheaths Nerves

Examples of WMSDs Tendonitis (inflammation of a tendon) Tenosynovitis (inflammation of a tendon sheath) Bursitis (inflammation of joint tissue) Chronic muscle strain Carpal tunnel syndrome

Common Symptoms of WMSDs Your neck, shoulders, arms, hands, back or legs may experience: Pain Tingling Numbness Stiffness Weakness

Additional Symptoms of WMSDs Other symptoms can include: Headaches Visual fatigue Increased errors

Specific Conditions Contributing to WMSDs Prolonged repetitive motions; Awkward postures; Excessive bending or twisting of the wrist Continued elbow or shoulder elevation (i.e., overhead work); Forceful exertions; Excessive use of small muscle groups (i.e., pinch grip); Vibration;

Specific Conditions Contributing to WMSDs (Continued) Restrictive workstations (i.e., inadequate clearance); Mechanical compression of joints, muscles; Improper seating or support; Inappropriate hand tools; Extreme temperatures; and Extended exposure to hazardous or annoying noise

Hazard Prevention and Control Certain practices can decrease worker exposure to WMSD risk: Change of work techniques; Regular monitoring of work practices; Providing personnel conditioning; and Maintenance and adjustment of equipment and tools.

Proper Work Techniques Use work methods that encourage: Correct posture; Use of proper body mechanics (i.e., proper lifting); Appropriate use of hand and power tools; Regular maintenance of equipment; Correct use of equipment and work stations; Take small breaks to stretch, stand, move about, rest; and Alternate between tasks to rest muscle groups.

A Note of Thanks: Thank you for your time and attention. Please sign the attendance roster to ensure you get credit for your participation. Remember that DLA/SM ESOHMS can be found on the https://dla.dod.afpims.mil/HQ/Acquisition/StrategicMaterials/iamthekey.aspx website. Remember also that each of us is “the key” to successful implementation of DLA/SM environmental, safety and occupational health policies and our ESOHMS.

We Welcome Your Questions and Comments! Please forward any comments or questions on this presentation to your supervisor or Jason Boynton. Your supervisor and/or Jason will obtain answers to your questions for you, and we will incorporate that information into future presentations, as part of the ESOHMS continual improvement goal.