Work Station Design INSY 3020 Dr. Rob Thomas Spring 2005 Industrial & Systems Engineering Department Auburn University

Goals of Workstation Design Optimize use of energy and thus maximize productivity Avoid musculo-skeletal problems Enhance safety

Key Issue----- “Adjustability”

Principles of Work Design Determine work surface height by elbow height Adjust the work surface height based on the task being performed Provide a comfortable chair for the seated operator Provide adjustibility in the seat Text: pp

Principles of Work Design (Contd) Encourage postural flexibility Provide antifatigue mats for standing operators Locate all tools & materials within normal working areas Fix locations for all tools & materials to permit the best sequence

Principles of Work Design (Contd) Use gravity bins and drop delivery to reduce reach and move times Arrange tools, controls and other components optimally to minimize motions

Guidelines for Workstation design Avoid static loads and fixed work postures Reduce Musculoskeletal disorders ( CTD’s) Set work height at 50 mm below elbows Furnish every employee an adjustable chair Use the feet as well as the hands Ref.: Konz Text, Chp. 13

Guidelines for Workstation design (con’d) Use gravity, don’t oppose it Conserve momentum Use two-handed motions rather than one-handed motions Use parallel motions for eye control of two- handed motions Use rowing motions for two-handed motions Ref.: Konz Text, Chp. 13

Guidelines for Workstation design (con’d) Pivot motions about elbow Use preferred hand Keep arm motions in normal work area Let the small person reach; let the large person fit Ref.: Konz Text, Chp. 13

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