1 Ergonomics

2 THE ERGONOMIC PROCESS There are 2 approaches to ergonomics:  Pro-active intervention (NIOSH Model) – better choice of preventing injuries  Reactive intervention – treating injuries and then taking corrective action  Most common causes of injuries – poor lighting, standing for long periods, reaching too far, heavy lifting

3 Ergonomics vs. Body Mechanics Ergonomics - science of designing job, machine, or process to fit the worker. Body Mechanics – correct positioning of body for given task (e.g. using strongest muscles for lifting)

NIOSH Responsibilities They study work-related musculoskeletal injuries (look at OSHA 300 logs) Inspect employee training logs Conduct research on posture, seating, space, adjustable work stations, lighting (glares) 4

Good Body Mechanics Use strongest muscles Take Breaks Have a broad base of support Avoiding twisting Avoid overstretching Use footrests R or L handed? 5

Good body mechanics – Don’t bend at waist 6

Good body mechanics – Push/pull rather than lift 7

Good body mechanics – Use safety/back belts 8

Who must adhere to ergonomics? All employees – including: Managers Employees with desk jobs Especially those with repetitive, heavy lifting, and standing all day tasks 9

Areas with frequent, repetitive injuries (e.g. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, tendinitis) Computers Athletic injuries Texting Scanning at stores Carrying heavy objects (waitressing) 10

Other ergonomic examples Lower work stations (avoid step ladders) Lumbar cushions/elbow rests Allow short breaks Rubber mats Minimize standing Adjustable Work station slightly lower than eye level 11

Proper industrial lighting Lighting levels that are too high/low make production tasks difficult, cause worker fatigue and present dangerous environments 12

13 MODIFY THE REST OF THE PROCESS Modify the tasks. Modify the process. Modify the machine. Modify the workload. Modify the workstation. Modify the worker attitude Modify the work environment.