1. Ergonomics

2. Training Outline Definition of Ergonomics
Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs)
General Information
Symptoms
Problem Area
Workplace Risk Factors
Program Elements
MSD Hazard Controls
Summary

3. Definition
Ergonomics is the science and practice of designing working and living environments to match the capabilities and limitations of the human body.
Or,
“The science of designing the job to fit the individual, not forcing the individual to fit the job”.

4. Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs)
A term in scientific literature that refers collectively to a group of injuries and illnesses that affect the musculo-skeletal system.
There is no single diagnosis for MSDs. Examples include:
Tendonitis
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Degenerated, bulging or ruptured disks in the neck or back
Many MSD conditions are grouped under the terms, cumulative or repeated traumas, repetitive motion injuries or repetitive strain syndrome.

5. Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs)
MSDs may:
occur from a single event;
take weeks, months, or years to develop;
produce no symptoms or exhibit no findings on medical tests in their early stages;
be associated with contributing factors present in work tasks and in home or recreational activities; and,
differ in symptoms and severity from individual to individual even though their work tasks or other activities are similar.

6. MSD Symptoms
Pain from movement, pressure, or exposure to cold or vibration
Change in skin color
Numbness or tingling in an arm, leg, or finger, especially at night
Decreased range of motion
Decreased grip strength
Swelling of a joint or part of the arm, leg, hand, or finger
Fatigue or difficulty performing activities

7. MSD Problem Areas Upper extremities Lower back Hands (fingers, wrist)
Elbows
Shoulders
Lower back

8. Workplace Risk Factors
Activities involving one or more of the following ergonomic risk factors, either singly or in combination, may contribute to or result in an increased potential for discomfort or injury.
2. Force and/or exertions
4. Cold temperatures
1. Prolonged repetitive motion
3. Awkward postures & static positions

9. Additional Workplace Risk Factors
Lighting
5. Vibration
7. Noise

10. Ergonomic Program Elements
Worksite analysis/evaluation
Hazard prevention and control
Medical management
Training and education
Periodic evaluation of program effectiveness
A comprehensive ergonomics program would include the following elements listed above. The elements will be discussed in the next few slides.

11. Worksite Analysis/Evaluations-OEHS’s Role
OEHS will perform an analysis/evaluation if:
An individual is diagnosed with a MSD
An individual is experiencing MSD signs or symptoms
An individual is identified with special needs
OEHS workplace inspection and planning dictates the need for ergonomic issue(s) to be addressed

12. Worksite Analysis/Evaluations-OEHS’s Role
Recognize and identify existing and potential hazards
Review injury/illness records
Evaluate job problems
Conduct periodic surveys
Worksite analysis will be performed to determine ergonomic stressors:
biomechanical
physiological
psychophysical

13. Worksite Analysis/Evaluations-Supervisor’s Role
Supervisors will assist the OEHS in:
Identifying problems
Recognizing when someone may be experiencing symptoms of a MSD
Recognizing stresses in a job with the potential for contributing to a MSD
Training workers on how to use tools and equipment properly
Making sure employees are working in the most ergonomically correct way possible

14. Reducing the Risks- MSD Hazard Controls
Controls can be implemented to reduce MSD hazards to the extent that they are no longer reasonably likely to cause MSDs that result in work restrictions or medical treatment beyond first aid.
They include:
Engineering Controls
Workplace/Administrative Controls

15. MSD Hazard Controls-Engineering
Engineering controls are physical changes to a job that reduce MSD hazards. Examples include changing or redesigning workstations, tools, facilities, equipment, materials, or processes and work methods.

17. MSD Hazard Controls-Administrative/Workplace
Changes in the way that work in a job is assigned or
scheduled that reduces the magnitude, frequency or
duration of exposure to ergonomic risk factors.
Examples include:
Allowing alternative tasks
Employer authorized changes in work pace and schedules
Conducting task modification/utilizing proper techniques
Performing job rotation
Encouraging exercise
Ensuring maintenance of tools and equipment

18. MSD Hazard Controls (cont’d)
PPE
Protect against cold
Reduce vibration
Musculoskeletal Support Devices
Examples: Back belts, wrists supports
Not medical devices (no FDA approval)
Not PPE
Use of back belts not recommended as back injury prevention measure (NIOSH)
PPE
Vibration
Use padded gloves
Keep equipment maintained
Use dampers
MUSCULOSKELETAL SUPPORT DEVICES
Wrist Splints
not recommended unless prescribed by MD for rehab
really need to evaluate workplace so neutral posture can be maintained
use of splints may cause worker to increase force required to bend wrist >> can do more harm than good
NOTE: Back belt use inconclusive; may be used in conjunction with comprehensive ergonomics program.
Like wrist splints, back belts may give a false sense of security & a worker may tend to ever-exert one self. Some studies have shown that belts may cause increase in blood pressure due to metal devices that put additional stress on the back.

19. Ergonomic Program Elements (cont’d)
Medical Management
Early intervention
Reduce the severity of illness
Training and education
General/job specific training
Supervisors/Management training
Engineering/ Maintenance personnel
Periodic Evaluation of Program Effectiveness
Medical Management
early intervention
Self-assessment by worker
Prompt response by management (medical assessment) will reduce the severity of illness
Periodic Evaluation of Program Effectiveness
Review claims data, injury log

20. Ergonomics Program - Summary
Should be comprehensive and proactive
Has support from management
Involves a worksite analysis/evaluation
Encourages workplace design which places the worker’s body in a neutral position.
Utilizes “ergonomically friendly” and adjustable tools/equipment and workstations

21. Ergonomics Program - Summary
Controls in place to reduce the risk factors that increase potential for injury.
Encourages good work practices
Makes changes and follow up on the effects.
Allows for short rest periods and exercises at the desk.
Trains employees so improvements will be effective.

22. REMEMBER!! For offices: The overall intent is to:
Reduce the number and severity of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) caused by exposure to risk factors in the workplace.
Ensure compliance with the OSHA General Duty Clause
Ergonomic improvements, in most cases:
improve productivity;
allow one to work more efficiently and effectively; and
help one feel better while at work.
4. Contact the OEHS for:
a. Ergo evaluations, screensavers, assistance
b. Websites
OEHS:
For offices:
For labs:
For Facilities:

23. QUESTIONS Kim Dunn Chapital Occupational Health Manager T.U. OEHS
(phone)