2. Ergonomics  An Overview of Repetitive Motion and Cumulative Trauma Injury reduction in the workplace.

3. What is ergonomics?  Ergonomics is a science that focuses on human capabilities and limitations in the design of jobs, workstations, tools and equipment.  Ergonomics programs seek to reduce Cumulative Trauma and Repetitive Motion Injuries. (CTI’s and RMI’s)

4. Common Injuries associated with CTI’s and RMI’s  When the space between the wrist bones and ligaments narrows and compresses the median nerve.

5. Common Injuries associated with CTI’s and RMI’s  Low Back strain - over exertion of the muscles in the lower back. Caused by taking the muscle beyond its normal range of motion or by repetitive twisting or stooping.

6. What can be done to prevent injuries?  Establish ergonomics  An Ergonomics Program should include:  Hazard Identification  Job Analysis  Training  Equipment  Medical Management  Program Evaluation

7. Hazard Identification  Management commitment and employee participation are critical.  Review employee complaints (from safety meetings or interviews) and injury logs to identify potential problem areas.

8. Evaluate Work Stations  As you look at the work station, ask the following questions:  Is there excessive wrist movement?  Is there excessive vibration?  Is there repetitive lifting (especially over chest height)?

9. Evaluate Work Stations  As you look at the work station, ask the following questions:  Is the employee required to sit or stand for long periods of time?  Are any awkward postures required?  What are the temperatures in the work environment?

10. Identify and Correct Problems  If problems are found, work with employees, safety personnel, medical personnel, and management, to develop solutions.  Understand that minimal changes to work stations yield tremendous results in alleviating problem areas.

11. Sitting and Standing Solutions  Some simple solutions may include:  Changing the height of a table or chair to allow plenty of clearance between the top of legs and bottom of table or desk.  Placing padding on a floor surface to reduce leg strain.  The chair used should adequately support your posterior, back legs, and permit smooth movement.  Desk and chair should allow easy range of motion at workstation.  Placing raw materials where they are easy to reach.  Workstation height should be adjustable and determined by the activity involved.

12. Training  Solution may be achieved through employee training.  Back Care  Posture  Job Rotation  Pre-Work and Break Time Exercise  Proper use of braces, belts, and other safety devices.  Knowledge is a powerful tool in the prevention of CTI's/ RMI’s.

13. Safety Equipment  PPE  Wrist Braces  Back Belts  Gloves  Shoes  Material Handling  Hand Trucks  Adjustable Work Tables and Chairs  Conveyors  Office/Computer  Video glare reduction  Adjustable equipment

14. Medical Management  Establish a baseline - this is done by evaluation of employee injury history or by pre-employment physical examinations.  Monitor employee injury data to match the employee to the job.  Encourage employee “wellness”  Exercise programs  Nutrition  Frequent check-ups  When appropriate, use exercise and work hardening in the treatment program for employees with CTI’s / RMI’s.

15. Regulations  OSHA currently has a proposed regulation on ergonomics.  California has adopted CCR 8:5110 as their ergonomics standard.  Check state plans for variations.

16. Summary Points  The most common injury in the workplace is the sprain/strain injury.  Effective ergonomic programs can minimize the number of sprain/strain injuries.  In most cases, the solutions to ergonomic problems are not cost prohibitive and do not require major design changes.  Employee participation and management commitment are critical to the success of the program.