ERGONOMICS II Funded by the Netherlands embassy, Ankara, Turkey

2 Content Back disorders 1 Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome 2 Ergonomic Solutions 3

Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome *Caused by operating vibrating machinery *Especially in cold, damp weather Reynaud’s Phenomenon - “White Finger”

Back Disorders

Back Injuries are the Nation’s #1 Workplace Safety Problem

Prevent Back Injuries Avoid lifting and bending whenever you can Place objects up off the floor Raise/lower shelves. Use carts and dollies

Prevent Back Injuries Use cranes, hoists, lift tables, and other lift-assist devices whenever you can Test the weight of an object before lifting by picking up a corner Get help if it’s too heavy for you to lift it alone

Things You Can Do Minimize back problems by exercises that tone the muscles in back, hips and thighs

Employer Should:  Begin an employee awareness education program  Analyze the workplace for hazards  Reduce any hazards they find

A FEW SOLUTIONS... Reduce manual material handling – Pre-Plan material drops – Utilize material handling equipment – Keep materials in “neutral zone” Equipment – Use the right tool for the job – Evaluate new tools for ergonomics – Keep sharp & in good repair – Use vibration dampening tools / gloves Reduce Duration – Mini-breaks – Multi-task – Employee rotation/job share

Photos used in this presentation were taken from The presentation of David Ellsworth *Edmonds Community College- The course supported from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, U.S. Department of Labor.